This study seeks to explore how social media campaigns led by civil society organizations are used to disseminate accurate information on safe access to self-managed abortions (SMA) in India. Drawing on recent data regarding digital media consumption trends, it will examine how individuals turn to social media platforms to find reliable information about safe abortion practices. The research aims to understand the role of digital platforms in facilitating access to information on self-managed abortions, particularly in settings where access to safe abortion services is constrained. Additionally, the study will highlight how disparities in access—shaped by factors such as abortion stigma, digital inequalities, and restrictive social conditions—affect the availability and utilization of SMA-related information and resources in digital spaces.
The material will be a combination of (1) digital platforms and social media channels of organisations; (2) semi structured interviews with content creators of digital platforms and social media; (3) semi-structured interviews with users of these digital platforms and social media channels. (4)a field diary that will be used during the period of the project to document thoughts, reflections and events that contribute to the research process.
The research is guided by the following research questions:
1. How are social media campaigns for safe and self-managed abortions conceptualised and designed for their target audience? What are the various strategies and decision-making processes that go into designing these social media campaigns?
2. What role do the digital platforms themselves play in mediating information on SMA, especially in contexts where abortions are restricted or not easy to access?
3. How do people seeking information on self-managed abortions use social media to access information about safe and self-managed abortions?
4. How can strategies and tools be developed to enhance participation and inclusivity in social managed abortion campaigns and platforms, with a focus on integrating user perspectives?