Fake news and manipulation have become defining challenges of our time. The first-ever Global Risk Report published by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) delivers a clear warning: communication failures are no longer merely a social issue—they have become a global safety risk.

A Global Wake-Up Call

Many of today's risks have already reached crisis levels, according to the inaugural Global Risk Report published by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). Based on a global survey conducted across 136 countries, the report paints a sobering picture of the challenges facing societies worldwide.

Among all identified risks, misinformation and disinformation emerged as the greatest concern. Inequality and geopolitical tensions followed as the second and third most significant risks, highlighting how deeply communication, trust and societal cohesion have become intertwined.

"Communication must be globally recognized as a safety factor and a fundamental prerequisite for societal resilience." Prof. Dr. Thierry Girard, Vice President of EISCOM

Key Findings from the UN Report

136

Countries

Experts from around the world contributed to the inaugural UN Global Risk Report.

#1

Global Risk

Misinformation and disinformation ranked as today's most significant global threat.

#2–3

Following Risks

Inequality and geopolitical tensions followed closely behind.

Key Takeaway

Stronger communication and cross-sector collaboration are essential for resilience.

Communication Is a Safety Factor

The findings reinforce what EISCOM has advocated from its inception: communication is not merely a soft skill or supporting function. It is critical infrastructure that enables societies to recognize risks, coordinate action, build trust and respond effectively to crises.

"The report clearly highlights the critical role of communication," said Prof. Dr. Thierry Girard, Vice President of the European Institute for Safe Communication (EISCOM). "Now more than ever, communication must be globally recognized as a safety factor and a fundamental prerequisite for societal resilience."

"If misinformation and disinformation are the greatest risks of our time, then cooperation is our strongest defense." Prof. Dr. Annegret Hannawa, President of EISCOM

From Warning to Action

The UN report was published only weeks before the Crisis Resilience Summit organized by EISCOM in Altdorf, Switzerland. From 8 to 10 September 2025, international experts from science, technology, politics, healthcare and the media came together to develop concrete recommendations, practical frameworks and implementation strategies to strengthen societal resilience against disinformation and polarization.

Rather than stopping at recommendations, the Summit focused on translating ideas into practice. Immediate pilot projects were initiated to accelerate implementation and help organizations strengthen their communicative resilience in real-world settings.