The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media in the European Union Crisis Management: A Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22235/d.v39.4437Keywords:
social media, crisis management, misinformation, Europe, governanceAbstract
This literature review examines the evolving role of social media in crisis management within the European Union (EU). Building upon peer-reviewed articles published from 2013 to 2024, the study explores how social media platforms simultaneously facilitate rapid information exchange and amplify misinformation, shaping public opinion and policy outcomes. Key themes include the paradoxical nature of social media as a “double-edged sword”: enabling real-time updates and grassroots mobilization while also fueling polarized discourse and disinformation. Through a thematic approach, the review highlights diverse crisis contexts —financial instability, migration surges, natural disasters, health emergencies, and political upheavals— and the ways in which social media magnifies complexity by uniting or dividing stakeholders. Special attention is paid to emerging trends such as digital activism, extremist propaganda, and the increasing reliance on algorithmic data for policy decisions. By outlining the benefits and risks of integrating digital platforms into crisis governance, this review underscores the critical importance of informed strategies and balanced regulation. It concludes that while social media holds promise for fostering resilience, transparent institutional communication and robust digital literacy efforts are essential for mitigating the downsides of misinformation and divisive narratives.
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