THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA MISINFORMATION ON ELECTORAL OUTCOMES: CHALLENGES AND REGULATORY RESPONSES

Abstract

Modern-day social media have changed the face of political communication by speeding the flow of information and at the same time accelerating the processes of misinformation and disinformation. These platforms have become a linchpin for public opinion formation, political agenda shaping, and possible influence on electoral outcomes-and thus a serious risk to democratic integrity. The research looks into the mechanisms of how misinformation travels-echo chambers, virality, and targeted political messages. It investigates these comparative case studies of India-the United Kingdom and the United States-to assess the effects of misinformation on voter turnout, trust in electoral institutions, and overall voting behaviour. It examines policy and regulatory responses, which include the European Union's Digital Services Act, Germany's Network Enforcement Act, and self-regulatory efforts by major social media companies. Accordingly, reform of the law in conjunction with technological measures and voter education would be a holistic approach to dealing effectively with misinformation. There is need for pro-active urgent action in order to protect electoral integrity in this digital age and, consequently, improve civic engagement.