Social Media, Polarization, and Peacebuilding Narratives in Conflict-Affected Societies

Abstract

Social media has become a central communication space in conflict-affected societies, shaping how communities understand political violence, identity divisions, reconciliation, and peacebuilding efforts. While digital platforms can intensify polarization through misinformation, hostile framing, echo chambers, and identity-based mobilization, they also provide opportunities for counter-narratives, civic dialogue, trauma expression, and grassroots peace advocacy. This paper examines the relationship between social media use, polarization, and peacebuilding narratives in societies affected by conflict. The study explores how online discourse influences public attitudes, strengthens or weakens intergroup trust, and contributes to the visibility of peace-oriented messages. The findings indicate that conflict-related social media spaces are often dominated by emotionally charged narratives, partisan framing, and distrust toward opposing communities. However, the analysis also shows that inclusive narratives, credible civil society communication, and youth-led digital campaigns can reduce hostility and encourage dialogue when they are supported by trust-building strategies. The results suggest that social media is not inherently harmful or peaceful; rather, its impact depends on platform governance, narrative framing, digital literacy, and the credibility of actors producing and circulating content. The paper concludes that peacebuilding in the digital era requires coordinated efforts among communities, civil society organizations, media actors, educators, and policymakers to promote responsible communication, counter misinformation, and amplify constructive narratives in conflict-affected societies.