Majorities in most countries surveyed say social media is good for democracy
Across 27 countries surveyed, people generally see social media as more of a good thing than a bad thing for democracy.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
Across 27 countries surveyed, people generally see social media as more of a good thing than a bad thing for democracy.
The share of the public that supports authoritarian systems ranges from 85% in India to 8% in Sweden.
Most think social media has made it easier to manipulate and divide people, but they also say it informs and raises awareness.
We asked respondents in both countries to, in their own words, define what democracy means to them. Most commonly, people mention three broad concepts: freedom and human rights, elections and procedures, and having a voice in government.
As democratic nations have wrestled with economic, social and geopolitical upheaval in recent years, the future of liberal democracy has come into question. Our international surveys reveal key insights into how citizens think about democratic governance.
Dissatisfaction with the functioning of democracy is linked to concerns about the economy, the pandemic and social divisions.
Germans and Americans have both become more skeptical of China.
People around the world see both strengths and flaws in the U.S., but they generally view the U.S. positively, according to a new survey of 24 countries.
Majorities say the democratic principles tested on our survey are at least somewhat important. But often, underwhelming percentages describe democratic rights and institutions as very important.
Dissatisfaction with democracy is correlated with views on economic conditions, whether key democratic norms are being respected and other issues.
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