Social media and policing of mass gatherings

Riots & Mass Gatherings | MEDI@4SEC Social media platforms are playing an increasing role in the planning and evolution of recent mass gatherings. They have enabled citizens to organise themselves more swiftly and effectively through the frictionless distribution of timely information. Whilst this provides law enforcement agencies and their partners with an opportunity to monitor crowds and communicate directly with citizens it has been suggested they are playing catch-up in these situations. Using examples from a number of mass gathering situations this workshop will explore the potential uses and consequences of social media involving large crowds before, during and after an incident or event.