Part 1/16:
The Rising Power and Perils of TikTok in Southeast Asia's Political Arena
In recent years, TikTok has skyrocketed from a simple platform for dance videos and short entertainment clips to a formidable tool shaping political discourse across Southeast Asia. With over 247 million downloads in the first quarter alone, its viral nature and addictive content make it impossible for users to ignore. Politicians and social movements are increasingly harnessing TikTok’s reach to connect with younger voters, but this rapid rise brings significant concerns—particularly around misinformation, hate speech, and election interference.