https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8928 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:47:23 GMT 2026-04-09T12:47:23Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143175 Title: The labour movement’s use of social media and perspective on digital labour and audience commodity : the case of trade unionists in Turkey Authors: Erben, Şeyma Esin; Efe, Eren Abstract: The study examines the extent to which individuals actively involved in trade unions in Turkey, and holding various positions within these structures, are familiar with the concept of digital labour. Also explored is whether such individuals perceive their online activities, particularly on Twitter, as unpaid labour. For this purpose, the snowball sampling method was employed in the research, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 participants, namely professional unionists and union workers who create content on Twitter. The study revealed that the participants overlooked immaterial labour while assessing the concept of labour and were unfamiliar with digital labour. It is shown that while they are knowledgeable about various aspects of the labour movement, greater awareness regarding the prevalence of unpaid labour via social media is required. The presented research contributes to the literature by offering the perspective of trade unionists with respect to digital labour. Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143175 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143174 Title: Social communication networks of migrants in Malta : an analysis based on Bourdieu’s theoretical framework Authors: Erben, Şeyma Esin Abstract: Malta, one of the smallest countries in the European Union, has a rapidly growing population in recent years, with its migrant population accounting for a quarter of the total population. The island country’s limited physical space and high migration rate increase daily encounters between different groups and allow for direct observation of social mobility and communication networks. This research examines the relationship between migrants’ social mobility and the formation of social communication networks by drawing on Bourdieu’s theory of capital and the concept of cleft habitus. Within the scope of the research, semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirty-five migrants; data were collected through participant observation between 2023 and 2025. The obtained data were evaluated using the thematic analysis method. The findings draw attention to the determining role of how migrants’ capital is recognised or transformed in social communication in the post-migration context. The study reveals the relationship between factors such as country of citizenship and duration of residence with social mobility and social communication processes. It is observed that the social networks of non-EU migrants, who experience downward mobility in particular, have narrowed, and this situation reinforces structural inequalities. Furthermore, the study shows that language proficiency alone is insufficient to promote inclusive social communication. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143174 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143173 Title: How blockchain-based companies can raise awareness of the climate crisis : the case of Single.Earth Authors: Alay, Hazal Koray; Erben, Şeyma Esin Abstract: Blockchain technology has yet to be widely adopted by commercial companies worldwide. However, it stands out with its features of securely storing and verifying digital transactions. Therefore, as in many sectors, it is also being integrated into business models aiming at nature preservation. In this regard, the purpose of this study is to evaluate blockchain-based companies' use of social media to raise awareness about the climate crisis. This study was designed using the qualitative case study approach. For this purpose, 295 Twitter (now marketed as X) content of Single Earth, a blockchain-based company aiming to fight against climate change and to preserve nature, were analysed between 2022-3. Data were analysed using MAXQDA and Microsoft Excel. Analysis of Twitter content reveals the company's strong emphasis on promoting knowledge on climate and adopting green technology solutions. This study contributes to a better understanding of blockchain-based companies' use of social media in combating the climate crisis. Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143173 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143155 Title: Social media advocacy for social change and capitalist intervention : analyzing the #veganol hashtag Authors: Erben, Şeyma Esin; İnmez, İlker Abstract: This study aims to discuss the relationship between commercial companies and veganism through the content analysis of the #veganol hashtag, which promotes ethical veganism, focusing on animal rights. For this purpose, a content analysis was conducted on 273 Instagram posts shared with the hashtag #veganol between April 2023-2024. The study reveals the potential of commercial companies to transform veganism into a consumption-oriented area to expand their market share. The study findings indicate that commercial companies produce social media content about veganism as much as other users, particularly emphasising food and health, followed by an emphasis on ecological issues. On the other hand, veganism is being distanced from the animal rights and freedom roots as vegan products in the market are underscored by both commercial entities and a significant portion of vegans through social media hashtags and content. Furthermore, the study highlights the risk that corporate veganism may overshadow the goals of ethical veganism in favour of corporate interests. This research critically discusses the rapidly growing plant-based industries with an interdisciplinary approach in the context of digital communication and activism. Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/143155 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z