Evolution of user behaviour on social media during 2018 road safety movement in Bangladesh

The widespread use of social media networks has significantly influenced protest-related activities globally, as seen in movements like the Arab Spring and Occupy Wall Street. This paper presents an in-depth case study of the 2018 student road safety movement in Bangladesh, analyzed through Facebook and Twitter. We explore how these platforms enabled the movement to spread rapidly across the country and internationally. By examining the spatio-temporal characteristics of the protest, we illustrate how real-world events influenced online activities and vice versa. Our analysis delves into the role of social media users in disseminating information, organizing activities, and sustaining momentum. The study reveals that online and offline actions are intricately intertwined, with social media conversations often spurred by real-world developments, leading to shifts in individual behaviors. This research highlights the vital role of digital media in modern activism, emphasizing its capacity to transcend traditional boundaries, facilitate coordination, and foster collective action. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how social media can drive social movements, particularly in under-researched regions. Our findings reveal that social media networks not only mobilized participants but also amplified the movement’s reach and coordination. The study underscores the intricate relationship between online and offline spheres, highlighting how real-world events trigger significant online discourse and behavioral changes. This research contributes to the broader understanding of digital media’s role in contemporary activism, especially in less-studied regions.