Resource Mobilization Theory: Political Movement in Egypt

Abstract

This paper discusses the application of the resource mobilization theory (RMT) to clarify the activities of certain key socio-political groups and movements in Egypt up till 2011. It contends that the political movements in the country have utilized information and communication technologies (ICTs) and social networks sites (SNSs) as a tool for mobilizing people and coordinating anti-regime activities. It also deals with certain political movements prior and throughout the Arab Spring in Egypt, which played significant roles in the recent political changes taking place in the country. This work confirmed that ICTs in general, and social network outlets in particular, have become a crucial resource for political groups, such as The Kefaya Movement, The 6 of April Youth Movement (6 AYM), the “We Are All Khaled Said" Facebook page, and even the Muslim Brotherhood to bringing about collective and coordinated actions. Thus, this article elucidates the importance of the resource mobilization theory in the context of socio-political movements in Egypt and their subsequent influence by looking at the utilization of SNSs throughout political uprisings in the country. As per the resource mobilization theory, the internet and social network outlets could be used as a resource for promoting and succeeding anti-government political groups and activists, which subsequently ended the Mubarak regime.