The Fiji Government is taking a significant step to enhance voter education by engaging social media influencers in their efforts to prepare citizens for the upcoming Local Government Elections. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government, invites qualified influencers to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) to collaborate on educational and awareness campaigns aimed at fostering civic engagement, especially among younger demographics.
This marks the first time the government has actively sought the involvement of social media influencers for civic education. The initiative is designed to effectively reach audiences that frequently utilize digital platforms for information and interaction. The Ministry has outlined that influencers participating in this project will be responsible for creating neutral, non-partisan content that delves into critical electoral topics. These topics include eligibility to vote, the qualifications of candidates, the functions of municipal councils, and the importance of participating in local elections.
With a focus on youth, urban populations, and rural communities within municipal wards, the campaign aims to empower voters with knowledge and encourage active participation in the electoral process. Influencers are required to maintain a presence on major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, and must have a substantial and verifiable following.
Moreover, candidates will need to showcase their experience in public engagement and their capability to generate accurate, responsible content. The Ministry pre-approves the content types, which may encompass various formats, including short videos, informative posts, static graphics, or interactive materials.
This strategy underscores the government’s commitment to increasing voter awareness and participation, particularly among demographics that might otherwise be disengaged from the electoral process. By leveraging the reach and influence of social media, the initiative aims to foster an informed electorate and strengthen democracy in Fiji.
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