Is political violence increasing or decreasing over the last few decades

The trend of political violence over the last few decades is complex and varies by region and specific types of violence. Several factors can be considered:

**Global Trends**: Some studies suggest that, globally, instances of armed conflict and organized violence have declined since the end of the Cold War, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s. However, there have been resurgences in specific areas, such as the Middle East and parts of Africa.

**Terrorism**: The 21st century has seen a rise in terrorism and extremist violence, particularly following events like the September 11 attacks in 2001. Groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda have contributed to a significant increase in terrorist activities and attacks.

**Civil Unrest**: There has been an uptick in civil unrest and protests in many countries, often sparked by political, economic, and social grievances. While many protests are peaceful, some have turned violent. The Arab Spring, for instance, led to conflicts in several countries that have seen protracted violence.

**Authoritarianism and Political Polarization**: A rise in authoritarian regimes and political polarization in various countries has led to increased political violence, including crackdowns on dissent, state violence against protests, and politically motivated killings.

**Contextual Variations**: Different regions are experiencing different trends. While some countries may experience decreasing violence, others may see an increase due to internal conflicts, ethnic tensions, or governmental repression.

In summary, while some aspects of political violence may be decreasing in certain regions, others, particularly terrorism and civil unrest, have seen increases. The overall picture is nuanced and requires examination on a case-by-case basis.