Extreme political polarization has emerged as a critical global risk, as it is “undermining democracies and their political processes” and increasing the “possibility of democratic backsliding”. It functions as both the “cause and effect of societal division” , creating “feedback loops” that “erode the legitimacy of status-quo and liberal norms” such as inclusion and freedom of speech.
The purpose of this policy brief is to “deconstruct the large-scale global challenge of polarization” by analyzing three imminent trends: disinformation rooted in historical memory, declining societal trust, and increasing economic inequality. This analysis is supported by comparative examples from “Europe and Africa” to identify universal challenges and offer regional solutions. Recognizing that the “fundamental antidote to exclusionary, polarized politics is greater inclusion” , this research showcases how “centering women in the solution” serves as a vital prerequisite for mitigating division and reinforcing “democratic resilience”.
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