Across many countries, trust in traditional institutions — including governments, media and public organisations — is declining, creating new challenges for social stability.
Surveys and research indicate that many people feel disconnected from decision-making processes and sceptical about official information. This trend has been influenced by political polarisation, economic inequality and the rapid spread of information online.
Institutions such as United Nations and national governments continue to play central roles, but their authority is increasingly questioned.
At the same time, alternative sources of information — including independent media, online communities and individual influencers — are gaining influence.
While this can diversify perspectives, it can also make it harder to establish shared facts or consensus.
The decline in trust has practical consequences. It can affect public health responses, election participation and the ability of governments to implement policy effectively.
Efforts to rebuild trust often focus on transparency, accountability and greater public engagement. However, restoring confidence is a complex and long-term process.
Experts say societies may need to adapt to a new reality in which trust is more fragmented and less centralised.
The challenge will be finding ways to maintain cooperation and stability in a world where fewer institutions are universally trusted.
