Issue Political and ideological extremism

Summary

Political and ideological extremism refers to far-right, far-left and other forces outside mainstream norms that reject the democratic order and may resort to violence such as terrorism or attempts to overthrow the system. The survey sees it as the product of heightened social deprivation from widening economic inequality combined with the spread of disinformation on social media. Attempted violence against political leaders driven by extreme beliefs has occurred in several democracies, making extremism a major mechanism of social division. Refusal to accept democratic procedures such as election results has turned into violent collective action, posing a serious challenge to democratic institutions and social order. Democracies are responding with tougher laws on removing extremist propaganda, security cooperation such as terrorism information sharing and global citizenship education that fosters mutual respect and tolerance, and the survey calls for inclusive governance that balances human rights and public order through transparency and participation.