Trend Rise of alternative 'truths' and conspiracy theories

Summary

The report observes diverging worldviews, interests and values in many countries and identifies the spread of alternative truths and conspiracy theories as a core feature of this fragmentation. Geopolitical developments and technologies such as social media and AI fuel the trend. Agentic AI can run accounts, produce and distribute content, analyse target groups and adjust campaigns on its own, which could push opinion manipulation and the undermining of democratic processes a step further. Conspiracy theories now travel across borders, and some state actors, such as Russia, use them as part of hybrid warfare. As engagement with traditional news sources declines in many countries, reliance on platforms grows, and disinformation weakens the transparency, accountability and plurality of information sources.