Digital Revolution: How technology is changing our democracy!

Digital Revolution: How technology is changing our democracy!

Prof. Dr. Lena Ulbricht, who has been a professor of political science at the University of Hildesheim since October 2024, devotes herself intensively to researching regulations in the area of ​​digital technologies. Her research focus is on the effects that digital transformations have on political processes and institutions. Ulbricht is particularly interested in the strategies with which governments use digital platforms, for example in the context of policing and digital citizen services.

With a clear focus on data protection, freedom of expression and the fight against digital disinformation, she examines the design and regulation of these technologies by various political and social actors. These actors include authorities, parliaments, courts and trade unions. In recent years, the legal situation in Germany has undergone numerous innovations in the areas of consumer protection, anti-discrimination and competition regulation, which significantly expands the scope for Ulbricht's research.

Access to digital services and political participation

Since the 1990s, digital media have significantly expanded citizens' scope for action, both in the areas of social engagement and political participation. However, this continuous evolution of digital technologies poses a challenge for research, particularly when it comes to capturing and analyzing political participation and communication. Digital tools and applications are often described as disruptive innovations that influence many facets of political life.

The increase in Internet usage, particularly via mobile devices, has led to fundamental changes in the communications landscape over the last two decades. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok are now essential infrastructure for exchanging information and networking, which also has a strong influence on political discourse. However, the intensive curation of content on these platforms also raises concerns about political participation. The 2016 Cambridge Analytica scandal highlighted the manipulative power of personalized content and further fueled debates about privacy and the role of social media in the political process.

Digitalization and its multiple dimensions

The effects of digitalization on democracy are complex and multi-layered. They affect both the executive, the judiciary and the legislature. In the executive branch, digital technologies are a priority because public services are increasingly being carried out via digital platforms, leading to more efficient public services. However, there are also risks, such as algorithmic discrimination, which can particularly affect socially vulnerable groups.

The judiciary is also experiencing changes due to digital innovations, while at the same time there are high demands on data protection and information security. Critics warn of an “Americanization” of the justice system through digital mass lawsuits. In the legislature, digital technologies have not been able to fundamentally reform the work in the Bundestag, but new citizen participation formats such as e-petitions have emerged.

Amid these dynamics, it is crucial to expand societal participation in digital regulation. Ulbricht plans to promote opportunities for participation and the role of science. Her work at the University of Hildesheim is intended to help develop innovative ideas for fairer digital regulation and increase their visibility in society.

In summary, digitalization is a double-edged sword. It opens up new opportunities for citizens' individual engagement and their participation in political events. At the same time, it harbors risks that need to be navigated. It remains to be seen how the political systems in Germany and worldwide will respond to the ever-growing challenges and opportunities of the digital world. These questions will remain crucial through continued research and engaged policy discussions.