" Political behavior in the digital age: A study of social media networks and their impact on political participation in Iraq

Abstract

This research aims to study the impact of social networks, which have become powerful tools for exchanging information, social trends, and influencing public opinion. It examines the compatibility between the use of social networks and the impact of social media use. Regarding the impact on public opinion, the research emphasizes studying the relationship between the use of social media networks and the level and methods of political participation among Iraqi citizens. This includes analyzing patterns of political expression online, participation in election campaigns, and advocacy for social and political issues. The spread of political information and news confirmed that digitization has enhanced citizens’ political awareness and enabled them to express their opinions directly. However, this impact varies according to age, educational level, and geographical location. It also showed that social networks have contributed to creating a space for public debate, but at the same time they have shown challenges related to information literacy and the spread of fake news, which may affect the quality of political participation.