The Internet is shaking up traditional structures

Our research shows: What happens offline is mirrored online. But the situation is not without risk, because digital media has the power to rewrite societies and break down traditional barriers. It’s already beginning to rearrange the social fabric by challenging deep-rooted patriarchal structures, shaping attitudes to gender equality, and furthering education for groups in society who previously had no access to education. On the flip side, certain real-life social differences are magnified on the Internet, and new conflicts can emerge.

The #speakup barometer is a DW Akademie project that examines the connection between digital participation, freedom of expression and access to information. Learn more at www.dw.com/barometer