#UbirajaraBelongstoBR: social media activism against (neo)colonial practices in palaeontology
<p>Social media has revolutionised the engagement between scientists and the public, offering platforms to challenge unethical practices and advocate for change. In December 2020, Brazilian palaeontologists and supporters initiated the hashtag “#UbirajaraBelongstoBR” on Twitter (now X) to prot...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Copernicus Publications
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Geoscience Communication |
| Online Access: | https://gc.copernicus.org/articles/8/175/2025/gc-8-175-2025.pdf |
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| Summary: | <p>Social media has revolutionised the engagement between scientists and the public, offering platforms to challenge unethical practices and advocate for change. In December 2020, Brazilian palaeontologists and supporters initiated the hashtag “#UbirajaraBelongstoBR” on Twitter (now X) to protest the alleged illicit acquisition and export of the dinosaur fossil named “<i>Ubirajara jubatus</i>” from Brazil to Germany. This movement not only demanded the fossil's repatriation but also sparked global discussions on neocolonial practices in palaeontology.</p>
<p>In this study, we analyse 39 728 tweets containing the hashtag #UbirajaraBelongstoBR, collected between December 2020 and February 2023. Employing social network analysis and computational text analysis, we examine the dynamics of this online movement, identify key influencers, and assess its reach and impact. Our results reveal that the campaign transcended the palaeontology community, engaging a diverse international audience including scientists, artists, activists, and the general public. Sentiment analysis indicates shifts corresponding to pivotal events, such as official statements and the eventual repatriation of the fossil.</p>
<p>Our findings demonstrate the power of social media in mobilising grassroots movements and influencing scientific discourse and policy. The #UbirajaraBelongstoBR case illustrates how digital platforms can facilitate international advocacy against unethical scientific practices, highlighting social media's potential to effect change in scientific governance and promote ethical standards. This study contributes to the understanding of digital activism in science communication and underscores the evolving landscape of public engagement in scientific issues.</p> |
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| ISSN: | 2569-7110 |