Story perspectives

2026 Trust Barometer: 70% Distrust Across Nations Rising

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer shows growing insularity across 28 nations, with 70% distrusting those with differing values or backgrounds.
Political polarization, institutional skepticism, and nationalism over global cooperation link to the trend.
The report notes a decline in optimism, with 15% in developed markets believing future generations will fare better.
Employers should act as brokers of trust, fostering workplace dialogue to address artificial intelligence (AI) and climate change.

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Story summary

The 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer shows growing insularity across 28 nations, with 70% distrusting those with differing values or backgrounds.
Political polarization, institutional skepticism, and nationalism over global cooperation link to the trend.
The report notes a decline in optimism, with 15% in developed markets believing future generations will fare better.
Employers should act as brokers of trust, fostering workplace dialogue to address artificial intelligence (AI) and climate change.