Deeply dissatisfied with the democratic system are Europe's citizens
In recent times, Europe has been witnessing a decline in support for democratic systems, as economic frustrations, the rise of populist movements, and trust issues take centre stage. This shift poses serious risks to the continent's democratic integrity and strategic future.
The trend is evident in various countries, with respondents from Poland, France, Romania, and Spain showing less conviction towards democratic ideas compared to their German counterparts. According to a survey by the European Movement, only 36% of the respondents are consistent supporters of democracy, while the majority in Germany, 52%, fall into the category of "inconsistent supporters."
In France and Romania, the support for democracy stands at a mere 30%, and only one in four respondents in Spain clearly supports democratic principles. On the other hand, residents of Sweden view democracy most positively, with 52% supporting a democratic state. However, in all other countries, the percentage of people supporting democracy remains below 50%.
Economic dissatisfaction and post-growth constraints are key reasons for this decline. Economic stagnation or decline, as exemplified by the UK entering economic reverse and rising financial pressures on lower-income households, fuels frustration with traditional parties and democratic institutions unable to provide growth or security. This reality challenges the sustainability of public services, increasing political heat on established parties and driving voters towards populist, anti-establishment alternatives.
The rise of populism and far-right gains further contributes to this shift. Across Europe, especially in Central and Eastern Europe but also in countries like Germany and Portugal, far-right and populist parties are gaining electoral strength. This fractures political centres, undermines democratic values, and weakens social cohesion. It also jeopardizes Europe's ability to respond strategically to external threats due to fragmented political agendas.
Perceived democratic decay globally and in trade partnerships also plays a role. The EU's increasing trade with less democratic autocratic regimes correlates with a decline in democratic governance among its trading partners, hinting at normative erosion in favor of realpolitik or economic expediency. This can reduce public faith in the EU’s commitment to democratic principles.
Moreover, Europeans hold low confidence ratings for global leaders like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, reflecting unease about leadership quality and democratic stability worldwide. This erodes trust in democratic leadership globally and within Europe.
The implications of this dissatisfaction are significant. There is a potential weakening of democratic cohesion within and between European states, fragmenting EU unity. Challenges to effective governance and policy-making during periods of economic difficulty and geopolitical tension also loom large. The risk of social polarization and decreased public trust in democratic institutions, which can enhance support for authoritarian or illiberal governance models, is another concern. Lastly, the possible deterioration in Europe’s strategic coherence, affecting responses to security threats and international solidarity, including support for Ukraine, is a serious concern.
Trust in German democracy has also decreased, according to a study by the Körber Foundation in the summer of 2023. More than half of all respondents expressed little or no trust in the German democracy. Trust in political parties in Germany is also declining, with only 9% expressing great trust in 2023, compared to 29% in 2020. In case of doubt, 64% of respondents would prefer the rule of a strong leader.
In sum, the growing dissatisfaction with democracy in Europe is a complex issue driven by economic hardship, populist political shifts, perceived erosion of democratic norms, and loss of trust in leadership. Addressing these challenges will be crucial to preserving Europe's democratic future and ensuring social cohesion, effective governance, and strategic unity.
- The decrease in trust towards democratic systems, seen in various European nations like France, Romania, and Spain, is a concerning aspect of the policy-and-legislation landscape, as it challenges the continent's strategic future and democratic integrity.
- The rise of populist movements and far-right parties in countries such as Germany and Portugal, as highlighted in the political sphere, is further fueling the decline in support for democratic principles, posing a threat to social cohesion and strategic decision-making in Europe.
