In person icon Political Trust in European Democracies: Drivers, Challenges, and Solutions

Abstract

This panel comprises first findings of the 2023-2025 "TRUEDEM: Trust in European Democracies" research project funded by the Horizon program of the European Commission. The panel addresses pressing issues surrounding political trust in European democracies, examining its drivers, implications, and strategies for fostering resilience in democratic governance. Political trust, as a cornerstone of regime stability and legitimacy, is intricately tied to citizens' perceptions of institutional performance, societal dynamics, and communication environments. Yet, it faces significant challenges amid democratic backsliding, rising populism, and restricted information flows. This panel explores how trust is shaped by various structural and contextual factors, including institutional accountability, freedom of expression, and citizens' access to diverse and reliable information. Key themes include the interplay between political trust and democratic support, the role of media environments in mediating perceptions of trustworthiness, and the impact of social dynamics, such as immigration and political participation, on trust formation. A central focus is placed on the dual nature of political trust—both as a driver of democratic engagement and as a potential enabler of autocratic tendencies when misplaced or exploited. The panel also critically examines how democratic innovations, such as participatory mechanisms, can serve as tools for rebuilding trust and addressing citizens' dissatisfaction with traditional governance structures. By providing theoretical insights and empirical findings, this panel offers a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing political trust and highlights actionable strategies to strengthen trust in European democracies. It contributes to broader debates on sustaining democratic legitimacy in an era of increasing uncertainty and transformation. While there is a growing concern about the crisis of democracy and democratic backsliding, TRUEDEM project findings provide an innovative perspective on the sources of regime support and strategies for trust building in the public domain.

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