Digital Parties: The Challenges of Online Organisation and Participation

The book analyzes how mainstream and new parties are building their digital platforms and transitioning from traditional (offline) organizations into the digital world. It provides an original account of how party digital platforms are regulated and used, and a crucial discussion of the main technological and democratic issues that political parties face in their digital transition. It also assesses the consequences of these digitalization processes for political participation and party membership, as well as the impact on party organizational models and electoral campaign potential. The book looks into one of the less-studied aspects of digital democracy, presenting empirical evidence and case studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate processes by which mainstream and new political parties are constructing their digital platforms and transitioning from traditional offline organizations into the digital realm. The authors employ an innovative empirical approach to examine the democratic implications and technical complexities of this digitalization process, comparing different parties across regions. Through an original account of the regulation and utilization of party digital platforms, as well as a critical exploration of the key technological and democratic challenges faced by political parties during their digital transition, the authors shed light on the profound consequences of these transformations for political participation, party membership, and the potential impact on party organizational models and electoral campaign strategies.

Furthermore, the book explores one of the less-studied aspects of digital democracy, presenting empirical evidence and case studies that showcase diverse parties and their adoption of digital participation platforms. From the Pirate Parties in Northern Europe to Podemos in Spain, La France Insoumise in France, the Five Stars Movement in Italy, and the German Greens, the book offers a rich tapestry of examples highlighting the varying approaches and outcomes of political parties in their digital transformation journey.

As a valuable resource for scholars of political science, policy-makers, and practitioners alike, this book provides a comprehensive understanding of the transition of political parties into the digital world. It offers insightful perspectives, practical insights, and empirical evidence to aid in navigating the complexities and opportunities that arise in this rapidly evolving landscape. By examining the democratic consequences, technical challenges, and innovative practices of party digital platforms, this book contributes to the ongoing dialogue on the future of political participation and democracy in the digital age.

Weight: 486g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030786700
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021