Stat: Violence increasingly seen as an acceptable tool for change

Global – The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a seismic shift in public sentiment, with worldwide trust in institutions crumbling and grievance replacing fear as the dominant emotion. The survey, spanning 32,000 people across 28 countries, highlights growing frustration with business, government, media and NGOs, with many feeling alienated and willing to push for change by any means necessary. 

There has been a ‘significant change’ in employees being worried that their job security is threatened by globalisation and technology. International trade conflicts were cited by 62% of respondents, while automation or lack of training were concerns for 58%.

Alarmingly, 53% of those aged 18–34, many of whom are members of Generation Z, see violence as an acceptable tool for change. The report also identifies global trust inequality, finding that people from low income groups are ‘far less trusting’ of institutions than those with high incomes.

Edelman CEO Richard Edelman stresses the urgent need to rebuild economic optimism: ‘When people see solutions, they’re more hopeful and willing to sacrifice for the greater good,’ he wrote in an opinion article for Fortune.

The findings from the new Trust Barometer were explored at an online event held during the recent World Economic Forum, featuring leaders from Microsoft, Heineken and Suntory Holdings. 

Explore our Gen Z Now and Next: From Vision to Contradiction macrotrend report for the latest insights on this cohort.