For the upcoming election, the number of first-time voters age 18 and up is estimated to be around seven million, and social media are their preferred means of communication. For controversial and viral video content, YouTube is used together with other platforms to spur social media interest. Content on social media can influence more than just first-time and young voters, Chanut said. Social media are also seen as more efficient and cost-effective in getting the message out, while also allowing parties to devise more innovative campaigns and communication strategies. There thus needs to be an “election literacy” component on social media.

Source: The Nation Bangkok January 11, 2019 18:00 UTC