In today’s Breaking News, a new study shows that many young people across Europe are losing faith in democracy. According to the latest survey, only about half of young people in countries like France, Spain, and Poland believe that democracy is the best type of government. This troubling trend is now one of the most important topics in the Daily news highlights.
Fewer Young People Believe in Democracy
The survey, conducted between April and May, questioned over 6,700 young people aged 16 to 26 from Britain, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Poland. It found that:
- Only 57% of all respondents prefer democracy over any other system.
- Support is lowest in Poland (48%), followed by Spain and France (around 51–52%).
- The strongest support is in Germany (71%).
Experts worry this shows that many young people are disappointed or unsure about how democracy works in their countries.
Some Prefer Authoritarian Rule
Even more concerning, 21% of young people say they would accept authoritarian government under certain conditions. This means they would be okay with a leader or system that has strong control and fewer freedoms, depending on the situation. This belief is:
- Highest in Italy (24%)
- Lowest in Germany (15%)
- Around 23% in France, Spain, and Poland
Also, 9% of respondents said they don’t care whether their country is democratic, and 14% didn’t answer or weren’t sure.
Reasons Behind the Growing Distrust
Political experts say that people who feel economically left behind or support right-wing politics are even less likely to support democracy. One expert, Thorsten Faas from Berlin’s Free University, said that among these groups, only one in three support democracy.
Other important findings from the survey include:
- 48% of young people believe democracy in their country is at risk.
- In Germany, that number is even higher at 61%, likely because of economic struggles and the rise of far-right parties, especially among young voters.
Changing Global Views and EU Concerns
Many young Europeans feel that Europe is losing its global power. Just 42% believe that the EU is still one of the world’s top three powers. Their top global powers now include:
- United States (83%)
- China (75%)
- Russia (57%)
Interestingly, young people in Britain were the most likely (50%) to see the EU as a global leader. Despite Brexit, 73% of British youth want to return to the EU. Also, 47% of all respondents support stronger ties between the UK and the EU.
Growing Political Divides and Migration Views
The study shows that political opinions among young people are becoming more polarized. Since 2021:
- The number who identify as right-wing has increased to 19% (up from 14%)
- 33% see themselves as centrists, and 32% as left-wing
- 16% said they don’t follow any political ideology
There is also a noticeable gender divide:
- More women in Germany, France, and Italy now describe themselves as progressive
- More men in Poland and Greece have become conservative
Support for stricter migration controls has also grown:
- Now 38% of young people support tighter immigration rules, compared to 26% in 2021
Mixed Feelings About the European Union
Most young people still hope the European Union (EU) can bring progress, but many feel it’s not doing enough. The poll found that:
- 39% think the EU is not very democratic
- Only 6% said their own governments work well and don’t need change
- 53% believe the EU is too focused on small or unimportant issues
Young people want the EU to:
- Help lower the cost of living
- Improve defense and security
- Create better jobs and support for businesses
Climate Concerns Are Fading
Even though many young Europeans say climate change is important, only 1 in 3 believe it should be a bigger priority than economic growth. In 2021, that number was 44%, showing a drop in support for urgent climate action.
This survey gives a serious warning in today’s Daily news highlights. Many of Europe’s youth are losing trust in democracy, questioning the power of the EU, and facing deep divisions in politics and values. If leaders do not take action, this could have a long-lasting impact on the future of European democracy.
