European Optimism on the Decline: Germans and Others Growing Pessimistic
With the European elections just around the corner, Germans' confidence in the European Union (EU) is on a downward spiral. A survey by the European Parliament revealed that half of Germans remain optimistic about the EU's future, a stark contrast to the 72% optimism recorded three years ago – a 14% drop.
This trend is not exclusive to Germany; optimism is waning across Europe. While 66% of people in Europe were still optimistic at the peak of the pandemic at the end of 2020, only 60% remain hopeful in the latest Eurobarometer survey. Country-wise, France trails at the bottom, with only 46% of people expressing optimism and 49% sinking into pessimism.
The flight towards the right is becoming increasingly pronounced, with some predicting significant gains for the "Identity and Democracy" (ID) group during the upcoming European elections in June. This group, which includes the AfD, could possibly become the fourth strongest political force after the Conservatives, Social Democrats, and Liberals in Germany, where polling is scheduled for June 9.
The survey also highlighted concerns over the EU's handling of corruption, cost of living, and climate and asylum policies. Two-thirds of Germans believe the EU is failing in its efforts against corruption, and a majority of citizens express dissatisfaction with measures taken to curb the soaring cost of living. More than half of Germans are unhappy with European climate and asylum policies.
Over 26,500 citizens from across Europe were surveyed for the latest Eurobarometer, including 1,500 Germans.
Insights
The EU's perceived bureaucracy and lack of control over international borders, especially with regards to migration, contribute to citizens' dissatisfaction. The housing crisis and economic concerns, with Germany forecasted to become the bloc's weakest performer in 2025, further fuel Germans' pessimism. Additionally, the decline in the German population's confidence in their national government has also played a role. Geopolitical instability, such as conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, has further eroded optimism about the EU.
Despite this downward trend in optimism, German voters remain significant for the upcoming European elections, despite their growing discontent with the EU's policies.
