Political Polarization and Its Impact on Governance: Exploring Divisions in Contemporary Democracies

Abstract

Political polarization has emerged as a significant challenge in contemporary democracies, affecting governance, policy-making, and societal cohesion. the causes, manifestations, and consequences of political polarization, drawing on theoretical insights and empirical evidence from diverse democracies around the world. The paper begins by defining political polarization and examining its various dimensions, including ideological, partisan, and socio-cultural divides. the factors driving political polarization, such as social media, economic inequality, identity politics, and institutional factors, and their interaction with broader societal trends.