Media, Communication, and Democratic Resistance in South Asia

This panel will explore the crucial role of media and communication in shaping and strengthening democratic resistance movements in South Asia. It will delve into how both traditional and digital media have been instrumental in resisting authoritarianism, advancing public opinion, and mobilizing civic engagement. The papers will focus on media's role in exposing oppression, providing platforms for dissent, and promoting democratic values amidst political crises. By examining case studies from India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, the session will critically assess how media narratives impact democratic resilience and contribute to political resistance. Discussions will also explore challenges like censorship, state-controlled narratives, and media independence in regions facing political turmoil. The panel aims to foster understanding of media's dual role as both a tool for democratic empowerment and a site of political struggle.