ABSTRACT
The term 'clicktivism' or 'slacktivism' refers to the practice of using the Internet to support social causes, typically at the click of a computer mouse, as opposed to engaging in actual grassroots activism. M. Sylla concedes that while there are 'many opportunities online' opened to anti-FGM activists, these are invariably accompanied by challenges. Dr Ann-Marie Wilson has equally praised the valuable contribution that online social media has made to her charity's anti-FGM work. In particular, cyberspace has afforded activists with an unprecedented global reach, therefore increasing their audience base and enhancing their awareness-raising capabilities. Activists often refer to a combination of factors including deep-seated patriarchal attitudes, hostility from within affected groups, lack of resources as well as difficulties in reaching isolated communities with no access to the Internet. Some anti-FGM activists argue that the way in which practising communities are frequently represented in the media is not helpful to their cause.
