Digital sub-nationalism among Bangsamoro students in Turkey

In recent years, there is a surge in the usage of social media in politically related activities. This increase is attributed to the youth, which comprises the largest cohort of social media users. For example, the Bangsamoro students in Turkey actively participated in the campaign for the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) referendum on January 21, 2019. This study looked into the digital activities of the participants, their meaning, symbols, and effects concerning the referendum. The data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The study reveals those digital activities such as social media campaign reinforces a sense of sub-nationalism and foster strong ties one's nation. Furthermore, it allows them to support and participate in political activity at home.