Voices that Matter: Trust, Polarization and the Future of Democracy

30/09/2025 25 min Episodio 2
Voices that Matter: Trust, Polarization and the Future of Democracy

Listen "Voices that Matter: Trust, Polarization and the Future of Democracy"

Episode Synopsis

Across OECD countries, fewer than 4 in 10 people express trust in their national governments. Feeling unheard plays a major role: 69% of people who believe they can influence decisions trust their government, compared to just 22% of those who feel powerless.In this episode, we explore why political disengagement is rising, from toxic polarization and voter fatigue to the long-term decline in social connection. How can democratic systems rebuild public trust, and how do citizens stay engaged when the system itself feels broken?Today’s hosts are Navid Sahraei, student of European and Global Studies, and Timothy Tennant, alumnus of European & Global Studies and OECD junior policy analyst.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Association or any of the partners involved in the project.Podcast writtend and Produced by Beatrice Birro and Beatrice Carniato in coordination with the Alumni Association of the University of Padua.Logo designed by Beatrice Carniato. Original theme music composed by Beatrice Birro using GarageBand. All rights reserved.