Parties in the digital era

Abstract: This chapter examines the evolution of political parties under digitalization, focusing on how digital tools have transformed both internal organizational practices and external communication strategies. Drawing on case studies of digitally native parties (e.g. Five Star Movement, Podemos, Pirate Parties) as well as the digital adaptations of mainstream parties, the analysis explores how digital platforms (and more recently Artificial Intelligence) have enhanced internal participation, reshaped campaign dynamics and altered representative strategies. The discussion also highlights challenges such as cybersecurity threats, misinformation and ethical concerns. The chapter contributes to the literature by arguing that party digitalization must be understood as a multifaceted phenomenon with divergent implications for intra-party democracy, political representation and voter outreach.