Across the Globe, People Increasingly Say Social Media Is Harming Democracy

A Pew Research Center survey of over 42,000 people across 36 countries finds that majorities increasingly believe social media is harming democracy, citing manipulation and division as primary concerns. However, respondents also acknowledge that social media informs people and gives them a political voice, reflecting a complex view of its impact. The survey, conducted from February to May 2026, shows that negative views of social media's effect on democracy have grown significantly over recent years.