The impact of social media reports on voting in democratic elections

Hossein Ali Moghaddam¹

1) Master of Political Science, Azad University, South Tehran Branch

IOI Code : AADH-ABBCHG
Publication : The second international conference on new researches in management, law, humanities and entrepreneurship(icmlhe.ir/2nd)
Abstract :
    This article systematically examines the profound and multifaceted impact of social networks on voting behavior in democratic elections in the period 2020–2025. Drawing on recent research, it is argued that social networks are not just a new communication channel, but have formed a complex environment and independent media ecosystem that has transformed traditional political processes, including political socialization, preference formation, vote mobilization, and trust in electoral institutions. The article provides an analytical framework by examining key mechanisms such as algorithmic personalization, the spread of disinformation (including fake news and misleading information), the creation of filter bubbles and the intensification of polarization, and micro-converged targeted campaigns. It then assesses the implications of these effects on information equality, the health of public discourse, and voter autonomy by analyzing empirical data from different elections during this period. Finally, possible regulatory solutions are discussed at three levels: platform self-regulation, government regulation (with an emphasis on transparency-oriented approaches and the protection of fundamental rights), and media literacy measures and the strengthening of independent media institutions. The findings show that while social networks have the potential to increase participation and awareness, they pose serious threats to the integrity of elections and the quality of democracy, which require coordinated and evidence-based policy responses.

Keywords : social networks voting behavior democratic elections misinformation algorithms