10 Tactics for Turning Information into Action

This information and communication technology for development (ICT4D) initiative seeks to inspire positive action through a documentary including stories from more than 35 rights advocates around the world who have successfully used technology to create positive change. The film presents 10 strategies for turning information into action and is designed for global human rights advocates, as well as campaigners of all kinds.

The film features 25 interviews with advocates from 24 different countries. For instance, included is the story of Noha Atef whose blog, TortureinEgypt.net, has led to the release of illegally detained prisoners in Egypt. Sami Ben Gharbia explains how activists upset the government in Tunisia when they used Google Earth and Google Maps to highlight stories of rights abuses. Dale Kongmont reveals how he uses video karaoke and YouTube in Cambodia to spread the word about the mistreatment and rights of sex workers in Asia. Dina Mehta, from India, explains what it was like to be part of an online group that worked via Twitter to get blood donors and other essential support to hospitals during the Mumbai terror attacks.

The film is divided into 10 chapters, each of which explores a different info-activism tactic, such as how to: mobilise people, present complex data, amplify personal stories, visualise a message, and use humour to communicate a message. Every chapter of the film is complemented by a fold-out card which gives a comprehensive view of the particular tactic. The cards feature short examples from the film, detailed case studies, and tools and tips from people who have used these tactics in different contexts.

The global launch of 10 tactics took place in London, United Kingdom (UK), Nairobi, Kenya, and Manila, Philippines, on December 4 2009. It will also be shown around the world in more than 35 countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Lebanon, Indonesia, India, Thailand, Nigeria, and Pakistan. To date, the film has been translated (subtitles) into 10 languages - Arabic, Burmese, French, Georgian, Hindi, Indonesian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Thai. (Tactical Tech is looking for more people to translate the film, and offers advice and technical support in this endeavour; see contact information, below).

A new chapter of the film and a card is being released on the 10 tactics website every week. Also, to increase access to this information, Tactical Tech is giving away a limited number of first-release copies of the 10 tactics package, which includes the film and cards, to media, independent journalists, not-for-profits, and rights advocates working in the global South.

Rights.

Tactical Tech is an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) helping human rights advocates use information, communications, and digital technologies to maximise the impact of their advocacy work. The group provides advocates with guides, tools, training, and consultancy to help them develop skills and tactics to increase the impact of their campaigning. Stephanie Hankey, Co-Founder of Tactical Tech, explains: "Technology and social media platforms have revolutionised the way we communicate and campaign on global and local issues. We have seen examples of the power of social media to shine a spotlight on oppression and hold governments to account, notably in Iran and Burma. Using technology and social media can also, however, carry huge risks for individuals in terms of security and visibility. This film provides practical advice through the compelling and inspiring stories of human rights groups who have used technology effectively to maximise the impact of their work."