Democracy in peril: Truth, power & polarisation

“If we are to save democracy from ourselves, we have to omit what has become superfluous, to draw a line between what is real and what is mere appearance.” — Hannah Arendt

Disinformation is spreading, trust in institutions is crumbling, and democracy is at risk. The rise of propaganda, mass polarisation, and the erosion of public discourse threaten our ability to think critically and engage in meaningful debate. As political leaders exploit fear and division, democratic norms give way to ideological echo chambers, personalist rule, and the gradual loss of pluralism.

How can we reclaim democracy in an age of “truth decay”? Christophe Busch, a leading expert on radicalisation and political extremism, explores the mechanisms driving this crisis—and the urgent need to reinvigorate pluralism and critical thinking. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the challenges we face and the solutions that could turn the tide.