The past decade has seen political polarisation – accelerated by social media’s filter bubbles and echo chambers – deepen and mutate. An ominous era of a polycrisis has shattered any remaining societal consensus. Meanwhile, powerful anti-establishment voices have stepped into the void.

Hoping to help Brazilians turn the page on one of the most divisive chapters in its history, beauty brand O Boticário launched a campaign to celebrate a new era of reconciliation. Deeply scarred by years of politically charged social divisions, Brazilians are eager for collective healing.

With the incoming 2022 Brazilian election, internet meme culture – that once helped the current president into power – is now being used to mock, and many hope, to oust him. As memes act as a second online language, their cultural relevance is driving heightened political engagement in Brazil.

The effects of a new wave of unionisation are evident on both sides of the Atlantic as people across sectors strike for better pay and conditions. But it’s not just at work that people are feeling discontent. Frustrations with the economy, governing styles, and various crises are pushing people to demand change for the better.

Social and political tensions have left many Americans feeling insecure and unsure about expressing their opinions. YouTube seriesMiddle Groundis confronting this pervasive discomfort by bringing people with opposing views together for open conversations around divisive issues.