By Oscar Villanueva, TAL Global
Economic fears and eroding trust in institutions are creating a volatile mix that threatens global stability. Inflation, shifting job markets, and widespread misinformation are fueling grievances. This will almost certainly lead to civil unrest and pose significant risks to organizations and communities, creating a crisis management nightmare.
The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, a global survey of over 33,000 respondents across 28 countries, highlights this growing crisis. The findings reveal an unprecedented lack of trust in governments, business leaders, and the media, with distrust tied to economic inequality and a pervasive sense of societal unfairness. For businesses, governments, and community leaders, these trends represent potential threats to operations, safety, and resilience.
Grievance as a Global Crisis
The “age of grievance,” as highlighted in the Edelman report, is marked by deepening frustrations over economic inequality and institutional distrust. According to the survey, 61% of respondents feel harmed by the actions of governments and businesses—a 10% increase over the past year.
Feelings of discrimination and dissatisfaction have fueled a 36% drop in optimism, with many believing the next generation will face even tougher challenges. Globally, these grievances are manifesting in the form of populist movements, civil protests, and social unrest.
From election upheavals to strikes driven by wage stagnation, the grievances detailed in the report highlight a world increasingly skeptical of leadership and eager for change- often through disruptive means.
Economic Anxiety and Its Role in Civil Unrest
Economic anxiety fuels these grievances, driven by inflation and widespread job insecurity. The rise of automation, AI, and globalization intensifies these fears, leaving many uncertain about their economic future.
Misinformation amplifies these fears, spreading discontent and confusion. According to the Edelman survey, young adults are particularly vulnerable, with 53% endorsing hostile activism as a legitimate tool for change. Disinformation fuels their frustration, creating echo chambers that escalate tensions and polarize communities.
Civil unrest becomes a natural outcome, as economic pressures and disinformation create a volatile mix. Protests over wage stagnation, resistance to automation, and dissatisfaction with leadership are expected to increase as these forces compound.
Strategic Awareness and Anticipation
From a security consulting perspective, the implications of these trends are significant. Grievances and unrest, fueled by economic fears and misinformation, create unpredictable environments that demand proactive preparation.
What It Means
Organizations must recognize that rising grievances can transform minor disruptions into large-scale crises. The rapid spread of misinformation adds complexity, turning local incidents into global flashpoints.
What to Expect
- Localized disruptions such as workplace protests, community unrest, or even targeted misinformation campaigns.
- Heightened challenges in detecting and responding to risks, as threats evolve rapidly in the “age of grievance.”
What’s Needed
- Comprehensive risk frameworks to monitor socio-economic and political trends, enabling leaders to act swiftly.
- Emergency preparedness and business continuity including scenario planning to anticipate potential disruptions and safeguard operations, employees, and reputations.
- Crisis communication planning including vulnerability audits, crisis protocol, message development and spokesperson training.
- Proactive communication and trust-building efforts to foster resilience within organizations and communities.
- Strong security protocols and countermeasures to create and maintain a safe and secure environment
Understanding these drivers of unrest allows organizations to identify vulnerabilities early and take decisive action to protect their people, assets, and communities. As one security leader put it, “Every day, there’s a new main character in the headlines. The goal is for it to NOT be you.”
Foresight as the Best Defense
The age of grievance is here, and organizations that fail to prepare risk everything. The Edelman report is not the only warning signal- these trends are being echoed by other researchers, reports, and experts. For those tuned in, the future will not come as a surprise.
Emergency preparedness and business continuity plans are important as well as vulnerability assessments and crisis management planning. All essential for navigating this complex landscape. The cost of inaction far outweighs the investment in preparedness. By taking proactive measures, organizations can safeguard their assets, protect their people, and build resilience for the future. The tools to address these challenges are available now: it is the time to use them.
About TAL Global
TAL Global specializes in security consulting and risk management, offering tailored solutions for your organization. Our experts are recognized thought leaders in conducting comprehensive risk assessments, developing strategic plans, and delivering engaging training programs.
Guest blog by:
Oscar Villanueva
TAL Global
[email protected]
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