In recent years, public opinion surveys have indicated a rising level of distrust in democratic institutions and practices on both sides of the Atlantic. Populist movements have gained support and political divisions have deepened in many countries making political compromise and normal democratic governance increasingly difficult. Simultaneously, Western democracies are struggling to find an effective way of dealing with China and Russia — and their ever more authoritarian ways, as well as their attempts to undermine and influence democratic institutions in Europe and the United States. In response to these challenges, President Biden has called for a Summit for Democracy and the EU has launched its Conference on the Future of Europe – both meant to reinvigorate support and belief in democratic values and institutions.

In the United States, political polarization is at an all-time high, and Europe's political splintering is weakening long-established parties. Citizens are unable to determine which news sources are trustworthy and are often influenced by fake news and conspiracy theories promulgated by both domestic and foreign actors.

What are some of the causes of these trends and what can be done to address them? Join WACC with Anne Applebaum on July 13th to find out.

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