Global perception of social media's impact on democracy shifts

A new study by the Pew Research Center across 37 countries indicates a growing global perception that social media platforms may harm democracy. While the median view remains positive—with 55% of respondents seeing a positive impact compared to 35% seeing a negative one—skepticism is rising in many nations. This trend is particularly pronounced in the United States, where 64% of adults believe social media is detrimental to the democratic system.

In Brazil, the sentiment differs from many developed nations. Only 29% of Brazilians believe social media is harmful to democracy, as a majority view these digital tools as contributors to democratic strengthening by providing information and spaces for expression.

In a separate reflection on democratic legacy, writer Valter Hugo Mãe discussed the importance of historical figures like Ulysses Guimarães and André Franco Montoro, key leaders in Brazil’s redemocratization process. The discussion highlighted how the freedom enjoyed by current generations is a direct result of the struggle for democracy led by these figures during the transition from the civil-military dictatorship.