The main question in this essay is “Is it easier for Presidents, Prime Ministers and other high-rank officials of governments to work in the conditions of fast spreading of information and Information-Communication Technologies (ICT)?”. And I will try to answer it. But let’s start with an introduction first.
As we know, fundamental changes in the impact society and the increasing impact of new information and communication technologies (ICTs) undoubtedly have an impact on the process of political communication. The changes relate primarily to the composition of the audience and the nature of providing information. Researchers note that the introduction and use of new media technologies lead to the emergence of a new form of political communication, which becomes more controlled by the citizen.
The characterization of modern society as an “information society” has become possible, since all social processes are carried out through the exchange of information. For example, voters should be informed about political programs, political issues, and political alternatives (represented candidates and / or political parties), and the voter will be able to monitor the actions of elected officials and respond in situations where the authorities are not able to respond to their request. On the other hand, government representatives should know the wishes and demands of their citizens. In other words, we should note that the authorities have a great responsibility, and they must also ensure transparency. This means that every step of the official is tracked, and in this case, he may simply lose his place. Another problem for them is that with the advent of new ways and means of communication, officials need to respond faster to changes in news cycles and their credibility.
But we should also note the positive aspects that made life easier for politicians. New communication technologies allow less resourceful actors to bypass existing barriers and communicate directly with other policy actors and the General public. The Internet allows you to get quick access to the necessary political information through portals, catalogs, and search engines. The Internet as a public space without borders allows the government to voice, implement and evaluate the results of decisions based on public opinion. The Internet space also allows representatives of the opposition to promote ideas to the masses and find supporters to support and implement their political goals. New media and the digital revolution have led to fundamental changes in communication practices, including both public and interpersonal exchanges of information.
In conclusion, I would like to say that for government representatives, ICT has both advantages and disadvantages. But in my opinion, there are still more positives sides. After all, it is really important to work with ICTs now , because they can use technology and the Internet to exchange information not only with other political figures but also with the public, to know their requirements and use this to make decisions in the country. Moreover, it is important for people with high ranks , to put forward their candidacy for elections, voicing your political program.
Meruyert Malgazhdarova
