European Youth Question Democratic Ideals

Survey reveals shifting views on governance and geopolitical power among Gen Z.

A recent study indicates a decline in unwavering support for democracy among young Europeans, with many open to authoritarian alternatives under certain conditions. The survey highlights regional disparities and a growing sense of the EU’s diminished global influence.

Diminishing Faith in Democracy

Just over half, 57%, of young Europeans favor democracy as the best form of government, according to the study. Support dips to around 51-52% in France and Spain, and a concerning 48% in Poland. Thorsten Faas, a political scientist from Berlin’s Free University, notes that “Democracy is under pressure, from within and without.”

Notably, Germany shows the highest support for democracy at 71%. The research, conducted by the YouGov institute for the Tui Foundation, polled over 6,700 individuals aged 16 to 26 across several European nations in April and May.

Authoritarianism’s Appeal

Around 21% of young Europeans expressed openness to authoritarian rule under particular circumstances. Italy recorded the highest figure at 24%, while Germany had the lowest at 15%. France, Spain, and Poland each reported 23% support for authoritarianism.

Apathy towards the form of government was also evident, with nearly 10% expressing indifference and another 14% unsure or unwilling to respond. According to Pew Research, younger generations worldwide are less likely than older adults to consider democratic governance essential (Pew Research Center 2023).

EU’s Global Role in Question

The study suggests a perception shift regarding Europe’s global power. Only 42% of respondents consider the EU a top-three global player, a view potentially influenced by events like the return of **Donald Trump**, China’s rise, and the Ukraine conflict. Despite Brexit, the UK shows the highest belief in the EU’s influence, with 50% considering it a major global player.

The United States is seen as a leading power by 83%, followed by China at 75% and Russia at 57%.

Rising Polarization and Shifting Ideologies

Polarization is pushing young Europeans towards ideological extremes, marked by a gender divide. Self-identified right-of-center individuals rose from 14% in 2021 to 19%, while centrists accounted for 33%, leftists 32%, and those without designation 16%.

Women in Germany, France, and Italy are increasingly identifying as progressive, while young men in Poland and Greece are becoming more conservative. Support for stricter migration policies has also increased across the board, rising from 26% in 2021 to 38%.

EU’s Future: Hope and Skepticism

Most young Europeans remain hopeful about the EU’s potential and support their country’s membership. However, 39% find the EU undemocratic, and only 6% believe their national governments function optimally. More than half feel the EU focuses too much on trivial matters and should prioritize cost of living, defense, and economic improvement.

Elke Hlawatschek, head of the Tui Foundation, stated: “The European project, which has brought us peace, freedom of movement and economic progress for decades, is seen as unwieldy.”

Greeks are most critical of the EU and seek fundamental political reforms, a sentiment Faas attributes to the lasting impact of the eurozone debt crisis. Despite increased support for climate protection, only one in three young Europeans prioritize it over economic growth, down from 44% in 2021.