This paper discusses the interaction between social media and the Russian 2011-2013 protests. First, it critically observes the existing analytical work on the role of social media in movements worldwide, situating the Russian experience within this context. Secondly, it examines sporadic facts and presuppositions by mapping and analysing a large number of hashtags and tweets written during three protest rallies in Russia. And finally, it offers a methodological and analytical framework based on an understanding of the relationship between social media and the protest movement as complex, multifaceted, and constantly evolving. This approach rejects any one-sided assessment and uses methods of continual monitoring, mapping, measurement and the analysis of a large body of evidence.

Language of contribution: English

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