On 8 December 2025, Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) and the London Social Media Observatory (LSMO) convened an expert roundtable to discuss TikTok’s impact on politics and elections. The roundtable examined TikTok’s growing influence as a politicised space, particularly among young people, and its implications on elections and democratic participation. The event brought together 45 policymakers, academics, civil society, content creators, and strategic advisors.
Our briefing paper, written in partnership with LSMO, synthesises insights from the discussion with the participants’ recommendations to support effective policymaking, community action and further research. It is intended for policymakers, researchers, campaigners and creators who are trying to understand how TikTok is shaping political narratives, participation and electoral debate, and what needs to change to strengthen transparency, accountability, and user safety.
The roundtable was chaired by Sophia Smith Galer (Viralect). Panellists included:
- Seyi Akiwowo, How to Stay Safe Online and Founder of 21/20 Studios
- Photini Vrikki, University College London
- Carolina Are, Online Harms Researcher at the London School of Economics and Content Creator
- Matteo Bergamini, ShoutOut UK
- James Sloam, Royal Holloway University of London
- Hannah Phillips, Jo Cox Foundation
- Rachel Marcus, ODI Global
- Neil Lavie-Driver, University of Cambridge
Attendees included a cross-sectoral audience of civil society representatives, content creators, academics, journalists, government institutions, policymakers and campaigners.
The roundtable was conducted under Chatham House Rules. No views in this briefing paper are attributable to, or representative of, any individual or organisation.
