Le tribunal populaire et de l’opinion des réseaux socio-numériques au Sénégal

Abstract

This contribution is an analysis of socio-digital networks as a popular court and opinion forum in Senegal. Since its emergence, Facebook has not only been used for communication and entertainment purposes, but also as an instrument for environmental monitoring, social control and social regulation. It has enabled the subjectification of Senegalese citizens with the aim of participating in the management of public affairs. This analysis is based on a theoretical framework of the sociology of digital uses and the socio-politics of digital uses. Methodologically, a qualitative and monographic approach is used, with online observation, netnography and content analysis as tools. This has led to important results. Based on an analysis of the Facebook pages ‘Luttons contre l'indiscipline au Sénégal’ (Let's fight against indiscipline in Senegal) and ‘Stop à l'incivisme au Sénégal’ (Stop incivility in Senegal), it is important to note that socio-digital networks such as Facebook are also used in Senegal as a tool for surveillance, control, alerting, sanctioning and co-management of public affairs. More than just an extension of physical discussion forums, these pages serve as mechanisms for digital activism and vigilantism through the dissemination of information on cases of indiscipline and incivility, alerts, organised denunciations and sanctions, as well as awareness-raising activities. Furthermore, this digital people's court has been generally well received by internet users and followers on social media, who have expressed their appreciation through recommendations and comments.