The 25th anniversary edition of the Edelman Trust Barometer has revealed a profound shift to acceptance of aggressive action, with political polarization and deepening fears giving rise to a widespread sense of grievance.
Sixty-one percent globally have a moderate or high sense of grievance, which is defined by a belief that government and business make their lives harder and serve narrow interests, and wealthy people benefit unfairly from the system.
The majority believe it is a problem that people in their country distrust those with differences so much that they actively try to make things worse for one another.
To bring about change, 4 in 10 would approve of one or more of the following forms of hostile activism: attacking people online, intentionally spreading disinformation, threatening or committing violence, damaging public or private property. This sentiment is most prevalent among respondents ages 18-34 (53 percent approve of at least one).
The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer is the firm’s 25th annual Trust survey. The research was produced by the Edelman Trust Institute and consists of 30-minute online interviews conducted between October 25 and November 16, 2024.
Nearly two thirds of respondents worry about experiencing prejudice, discrimination, or racism – up 10 points in the last year and with significant increases across countries and demographics.
Only 36 percent of respondents believe that things will be better for the next generation. In developed countries, just one in five see a better future.
Those with a high sense of grievance see business as 81 points less ethical and 37 points less competent than those with a low sense of grievance, and they believe business is not doing enough to address key societal issues.
Download the report, explore the findings and learn how your company can make a difference.
The Edelman Trust Barometers includes data on trust in businesses, media, government and NGOs in Portugal and globally — an essential reference for any corporate communication strategy.