by Nathalie Clara Hutter , Universität Wien 

UNESCO and various media outlets have increasingly raised concerns about the impact of social media on democratic discourse (UNESCO, 2025). TikTok, once known for dance trends and lip-sync videos, has quickly evolved into a tool for political communication. Its unique algorithm, short video format, and high engagement levels make it especially appealing to politicians seeking to reach younger audiences. However, this shift also brings risks – particularly in how political opinions are formed among youth. 

This blogpost examines how TikTok’s algorithm shapes political opinion among young users in the context of media governance. It argues that algorithmic ranking systems on TikTok prioritise emotionally engaging and polarising political content, influencing how young audiences encounter and interpret political information. While TikTok is often presented as an open space enabling democratic expression, this analysis highlights that its algorithmic design structures visibility in ways that can reinforce certain political perspectives. This raises broader questions about how communication systems are governed, particularly in relation to platform governance, algorithmic power, and the conditions of democratic participation.

Unfiltered Information and the Impact on Young Users

According to a 2024 study, 86% of TikTok users say they feel free to express political opinions on the app. (McClain, 2024, p. 17) This suggests a space where unfiltered information can spread quickly and widely, regardless of its accuracy. Content on TikTok is often emotionally charged and highly personalized. These are qualities politicians use to connect with younger audiences. (Ureke, 2024, p. 262) For example Nigel Farage has gained over a million followers on the app. But as The Guardian asks, are young users engaging with his political message or are they just being entertained?. (The Guardian, 2025)

From Free Speech to Democratic Risk

While TikTok offers access to diverse perspectives, its algorithm tends to prioritize controversial or polarizing content because these drive engagement and consequently profit. This can unintentionally amplify extreme or one-sided views and threaten the democratic principle of balanced discourse. Right-wing content often gains traction. Even negative engagement like critical comments boost visibility. This is concerning, especially for younger users who are still developing political awareness. For instance, Germany’s far-right AfD receives more likes on TikTok than any other party. (Der Standard, 2025) This reflects a broader global issue of right-leaning content being favored by social media algorithms. 

What Can Be Done?

To prevent the harmful effects of algorithmic bias, platforms must become more transparent about how content is ranked and shown. Independent testing and regulatory oversight can ensure no political perspective is disproportionately amplified. Independent checks and government rules can help make sure that no political opinion gets too much attention. Additionally, media literacy education is vital and empowering users to recognize bias, verify the sources and navigate social media critically. 

Conclusion

TikTok is no longer just a platform for entertainment – it plays a significant role in shaping political opinions, especially among younger audiences. While it offers new opportunities for political engagement and self-expression, the risk of algorithmic bias and the spread of extremist content cannot be ignored. Young users, in particular, are more vulnerable to manipulation, as they often lack the tools to critically evaluate emotionally driven or misleading content. To address this, a comprehensive approach is needed: platforms must increase algorithm transparency, governments should enforce independent oversight and schools must strengthen media literacy education. Freedom of speech is a democratic cornerstone but without accountability and user awareness, social media can become a tool for misinformation and polarization. If used responsibly, TikTok can foster democratic engagement – if left unchecked, it could undermine the very values it has the potential to support. 

References 

Der Standard. (22.02.2025). AfD vor den Wahlen quer durch Social Media algorithmisch bevorzugt. https://www.derstandard.at/story/3000000258472/afd-vor-den-wahlen-quer-durchsocial-media-algorithmisch-uebervorteilt. Accessed on 15.05.2025 Accessed on 15.05.2025 at 15:10.

Ureke, Oswelled. (2024). Politics at Play: TikTok and Digital Persuasion in Zimbabwe’s 2023 General Elections. Afrikaspectrum, 59(2), 254–278. https://doi.org/10.1177/00020397241241335

McClain, Colleen. (2024). How Americans Navigate Politics on Tiktok, X, Facebook and Instagram. Washington: Pew Research Center. 

The Guardian. (2025). Nigel Farage is a hit on Tiktok but are young voters listening or laughing?. (https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/may/11/nigel-farage-is-a-hit-ontiktok-but-are-young-voters-listening-or-laughing) Accessed on 13.05.2025 at 11:06. 

UNESCO. (2025). Media and Elections. https://www.unesco.org/en/freedom-expression-rulelaw/media-elections.Accessed on 13.05.2025 at 10:53.