Case Studies — SMS
SMS stands for short messaging service, otherwise known as text messaging on a mobile phone. Texting has been a popular tool used to coordinate and organize protest movements, as well as for mobile fundraising. Sending a text is often cheaper and more convenient than placing a voice call. The Philippines is known as the king of text messaging. Filipinos sent over 1 billion text messages DAILY in 2007!!
The Movements.org case study series identifies and evaluates campaigns that have harnessed technology for social change in their communities or that have demonstrated degree of success that others could learn from. Think you or someone you know should be featured?! Share your work here.
Using SMS Mass Messaging to Raise Money for Flood Relief in Pakistan
Umme Kulsoom raised 0.7 million Pakistani rupees and gathered clothes for 500 people using an SMS campaign after massive floods.
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Documenting Fraud in Afghan Elections
Alive in Afghanistan empowers Afghani civil society groups and citizens to report on Afghani elections for themselves.
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Anti-Japan Protests in China
Despite a ban on political organizing, Chinese citizens were successful in coordinating protests against Japan in 2005.
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How SMS Swung a Parliamentary Election in Spain
Spaniards, wary of a government cover-up of the Madrid train bombings, quickly organized and altered the direction of elections.
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People Power II in the Philippines
Outraged by corrupt leadership, thousands of Filipinos responded to text messages calling for action and took to the streets.
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The Orange Revolution in Ukraine
When Ukrainian citizens suspected election fraud, pro-democracy groups organized to pressure the government.
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