The rise of Mali's 'videomen' as cybercombatants in global crisis ecologies.

This article examines the geopolitical shifts in Mali following its rejection of western intervention and subsequent partnerships with Russia. Mali is used as a case-study to explore the role of digital connectivity within global crisis ecologies. It challenges the narrative attributing Mali's coup...

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Publicado en:International Affairs Vol. 100; no. 4; pp. 1405 - 1430
Autores principales: Cold-Ravnkilde, Signe Marie, Sylla, Almamy
Formato: Artículo
Publicado: Oxford University Press / USA Jul2024
Materias:
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
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        atl: The rise of Mali's 'videomen' as cybercombatants in global crisis ecologies.
      aug:
        au:
          Cold-Ravnkilde, Signe Marie
          Sylla, Almamy
      su:
        Mali
        Political development
        Legitimacy of governments
        International relations
        Digital technology
        Form perception
      sug:
        subj:
          Political development
          Legitimacy of governments
          International relations
          Mali
          Foreign affairs
          International Affairs
          Digital technology
          Form perception
      keyword:
        Africa
        digital warfare
        global South politics
        great powers
        international security
        military intervention
        Africa
        digital warfare
        global South politics
        great powers
        international security
        military intervention
      ab: This article examines the geopolitical shifts in Mali following its rejection of western intervention and subsequent partnerships with Russia. Mali is used as a case-study to explore the role of digital connectivity within global crisis ecologies. It challenges the narrative attributing Mali's coup solely to external influences, emphasizing the agency of local actors and new digital practices. Focusing on the role of 'videomen' in disseminating the narratives of Yèrèwolo, Mali's foremost anti-French and pro-Russian political movement, it examines how these actors shape public perceptions of Mali's new military leaders and their international partners. Using an assemblage framework to analyse smartphones' affordances, the nuanced dynamics shaping political legitimacy are elucidated, emphasizing the performative nature of authority in the digital age. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and quantitative analysis of online content, the article highlights how smartphones empower users like videomen to influence political dynamics amid crisis and geopolitical tensions. By reconstructing past events and reclaiming patriotism, videomen strategically use the political transition to outcompete traditional media professionals. The study underscores the need for understanding how localized dynamics shape broader political developments and international relations, offering insights into similar trends in other west African nations facing military coups and increased Russian involvement.
      pubtype: Academic Journal
      doctype: Article
      src: R
    language: English
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