Fact Check: "Political violence and misinformation have increased in many democracies over time."
What We Know
The claim that political violence and misinformation have increased in many democracies over time is supported by various reports and studies. For instance, a special report from Princeton University highlights a notable rise in political violence and hostility in the United States, citing incidents such as assassination attempts and attacks on marginalized groups. This report indicates that the risk of political violence continues to pose a serious danger to communities and democracy.
Furthermore, the Global Risks Report 2025 identifies misinformation and disinformation as leading short-term risks, stating that these factors may fuel instability and undermine trust in governance. The report reflects a consensus among experts that misinformation is a growing threat in democratic societies.
Additionally, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) documented a surge in misinformation and conspiracy theories in 2024, particularly those weaponized by extremist groups targeting vulnerable communities. This trend indicates a troubling increase in the use of misinformation as a tool for political and social manipulation (Emerging Misinformation and Disinformation Trends and Tactics for 2025).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is substantial, particularly regarding the rise of political violence and misinformation. The Princeton report provides a credible account of increased political violence in the U.S., which is corroborated by public sentiment; a TIME article notes that many Americans feel democracy is under threat due to these rising tensions. This suggests a widespread perception that political violence is escalating.
On the misinformation front, the ADL's findings are critical. The organization's focus on the tactics employed by extremist groups lends credibility to the assertion that misinformation is increasingly being used to incite violence and division. The report outlines specific trends, such as the exploitation of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) to create misleading content, which complicates the landscape of misinformation (Emerging Misinformation and Disinformation Trends and Tactics for 2025).
However, while the evidence points to an increase in both political violence and misinformation, the extent and impact of these phenomena can vary significantly across different democracies. Not all democracies experience the same levels of violence or misinformation, and some may have mechanisms in place to mitigate these issues effectively. Thus, while the trend is evident, it is essential to consider the context and specific circumstances of each democracy.
Conclusion
The claim that political violence and misinformation have increased in many democracies over time is Partially True. There is substantial evidence indicating a rise in both political violence and misinformation, particularly in the United States and other democracies facing similar challenges. However, the degree of increase and its implications can vary widely among different democratic nations, suggesting that while the trend is concerning, it is not uniformly applicable to all democracies.
