The Documentary Podcast Social media influencers and politics
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Sep 27, 2025 Luis Fajardo, a BBC Monitoring journalist, discusses how social media influencers intertwine with politics in Latin America, revealing controversies in Colombia and Argentina where influencers are contracted by the government. Famega Syavira, head of social media for BBC Indonesia, highlights the rise of paid influencers, dubbed 'buzzers', shaping the political landscape during elections. Additionally, Satish Urugonda talks about the conservation efforts for the critically endangered Jerdon's Courser, showcasing the dedication of forest watchers in India.
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Influencers Replace Traditional News
- Social media influencers now shape news and trends across many countries where trust in traditional media falls.
- Famega Syavira and Adline Okere note large audiences treat influencers as primary news sources and norm-setters.
Cool Credibility Becomes Political Channel
- Influencers carry cultural credibility that politicians can exploit for political messaging.
- Luis Fajardo warns followers can receive political messages while believing they follow an independent creator.
Paid Influencers In Latin America
- In Colombia and Argentina both governments have contracted influencers to promote policies, sparking controversy.
- Luis Fajardo describes paid influencers on government payrolls despite ideological differences between administrations.