Popular online personalities who cultivate a following on social media and other digital platforms—commonly known as influencers—have become increasingly visible actors in electoral politics worldwide. Political parties, candidates, governments, civil society organizations, and foreign actors have used influencers for purposes ranging from voter outreach and civic engagement to covert shadow campaigning, disinformation, and coordinated foreign interference operations. 

This report supports policymakers, electoral management bodies, and other democracy-facing institutions in deciding whether and
how to respond to the growing role of political influencers in election campaigns. Drawing on a systematic review of laws, regulations, and guidelines across 18 countries and the European Union, it examines existing national and international approaches to political influencers. The report concludes with a set of practical recommendations, providing policymakers with a concrete starting point for deciding not only whether to act but how.