The Dark Side of Social Media in eParticipation: a Socio-legal Perspective

Using the taxonomy of Bright ICT research and the framework of freedom of expression, this article focuses on Restorative Bright ICT to capture the problems arising from the use of social media within eParticipation in Indonesia, and how to overcome them. The article addresses the objectives by analyzing three illustrative cases of eParticipation through social media in Indonesia. Data from document analysis and interviews are also provided to add to the understanding of the phenomena. Theoretical and practical implications are also presented, including identification of the problems of social media in eParticipation in Indonesia, along with potential restorative solutions underpinned by Bright Internet principles from legal, social and technical perspectives. Furthermore, this article also proposes a model for Restorative Bright ICT in eParticipation in Indonesia to guide future research for this interest area.