European Policy Centre analysts say the general political climate and the upcoming European elections are, in part, responsible for the uptick in violence.
The shooting of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico is an example of the more serious acts of political violence in parts of the European Union.
It was the first attempt on the life of a European head of state since 2003, and reflects a growing polarisation across the continent.
Eric Maurice, researcher at the European Policy Centre, said there are numerous factors behind the discontent.
This isn’t an uncommon view, but I think it’s pretty socially unhealthy for us to glorify discord. Sentiments like “The down votes mean I’m right” or “Bans prove they were speaking the truth” erode our ability to have a discussion and share our knowledge.