Born in Facebook: The Refugee Crisis and Grassroots Connective Action in Hungary

Authors

  • Tibor Dessewffy Faculty of Social Sciences - Eötvös Loránd University, Faculty of Social Scicences, Budapest, Hungary
  • Zsófia Nagy Department of Social Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences - Eötvös Loránd University, Faculty of Social Scicences, Budapest, Hungary

Keywords:

social media, social movements, collective action, Facebook, refugees

Abstract

This article explores the impact of social networking sites on social movements and collective action. Literature on the subject ranges from celebratory claims to critical stances. However, the more sophisticated approach conceptualizing “connective action” broadens the theoretical scope. The case of Migration Aid, a Hungarian Facebook-based grassroots relief group for refugees, is such an example. In this study, we contextualize the group’s activities, exploring how they relate to the broader political environment, arguing for a need to reexamine the concept of contentious politics. We explore the characteristics that make connective action possible, with an emphasis on the group’s rhizomatic structure. The findings detail the characteristics of the rhizomatic organization and how these characteristics shape the group’s action repertoire.

Author Biographies

Tibor Dessewffy, Faculty of Social Sciences - Eötvös Loránd University, Faculty of Social Scicences, Budapest, Hungary

Head of Department, Department of Social Psychology 

Zsófia Nagy, Department of Social Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences - Eötvös Loránd University, Faculty of Social Scicences, Budapest, Hungary

Assistant Lecturer, Department of Social Psychology

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Published

2016-06-15

Issue

Vol. 10 (2016)

Section

Articles

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