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EUROPEANYOUTH- 2018 -Report

Contents

1. Study Design (p. 3-4)

2. Perception Of The European Union (p. 5-20)

3. Political attitudes (p. 21-45)

4. Media Usage (p. 46-54)

5. Outlook Into The Future (p. 55-68)

6. Imprint (p. 69-70)

STUDY DESIGN

Study Design

4

In order to provide insights into the environment, identities, and attitudes

of young Europeans towards Europe in 2018, the TUI Foundation

conducted a survey among young people from France, Germany, Greece,

Italy, Poland, Spain, and United Kingdom. 1

For this purpose 6,080 young people aged 16 up to 26 were interviewed

via an online survey from February 14th until May 4th 2017. The

participants of the study where recruited through online access panels.

In each country the participants were recruited representatively according

to the actual distribution of age and gender in the respective country

(representative quotas retrieved from EUROSTAT,

https://ec.europa.eu/CensusHub2/). Results were additionally weighed in

terms of age and gender in order to adjust minor deviations. Results that

account for all countries are weighed additionally so that every country

has the same weight.

The participants were asked about four subject areas:

1. Perception of the European Union

2. Political attitudes

3. Media usage

4. Perception of the future

1 Countries sorted in alphabetical order (i.e., France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, Spain, United Kingdom).

n=1.025

n=1.013

n=1.000

n=1.000n=507

n=1.025

n=510

https://ec.europa.eu/CensusHub2/

PERCEPTION OF THE EU

Perception of the EU

6

Young Europeans seem to be more aware of Europe being

relevant than in 2017. A whole series of results point towards

Europe (as a topic) becoming more important to young people

compared to the previous year. Possibly a more distinct political

discours has led to a more positive perception of Europe and the

European Union.

Compared to 2017, the share of young people who describe

themselves as citizens of their country exclusively has decreased

(2018: 34 percent, 2017: 42 percent). At the same time, the

share of those describing themselves as citizens of their country

as well as Europeans has increased (2018: 52 percent, 2017: 45

percent). Yet, there are differences between countries. In

Germany and in Poland, descriptions of the identity of young

people have not changed. In Greece, the share of young people

with Greek and European identity has only slightly increased. In

France, Italy, Spain and the UK, identities shifting from

exclusively national to mixed identities is more pronounced.

When it comes to how young Euopeans would decide in a

hypothetical referendum on the EU membership of their country,

young peoples attitudes have become more in favor of the EU

than in the previous year. Overall, 71 percent would vote for

their country to remain in the EU. That is ten points more than

in 2017 (61 percent). This finding is consistent across all

countries. In France, Germany, Greece, Italy and Spain, the share

of those voting for remain increases by more than ten points.

Only in Poland (+ seven points) and in the UK (+ five points), the

increase of the remain votes is single-digit

The perception of the relationship between one‘s own country

and the EU has changed, too. Increasingly, young Europeans

perceive this relationship as reciprocical (country and the EU

need each other equally; 2018: 35 percent, 2017: 29 percent).

This trend is stems from changes in France, Germany, Poland,

Spain and (to a lower extent) in Greece and Italy.

Only slight changes compared to 2017 are found regarding what

the EU stands for. Above all, the EU is considered to be an

economic alliance. However, perceiving the EU as an alliance that

shares cultural values has increased in Italy (+ seven points) and

Spain (+ five points).

Half of young Europeans describe themselves at least partly as European, on third only as citizen of their country.

7

How would you be most likely to describe yourself?

Base: all respondents, n=6080

In %

3425

36 3438

46

21

40

4453

37 44

47

43

49

36

8 811

9

9 6

8

7

3 2 4 2

2 2

4

4

8 6 8 103 1

17 9

3 5 4 1 2 2 1 4

don't know/no response

other

only as a European

as a European first, and then as citizenof my country

as citizen of my country first, and then asa European

as citizen of my country

In France, Italy, Spain and UK, the share of young people describing themselves as at least partly European has increased.

8

How would you be most likely to describe yourself?

Base: all respondents, 2018: n=6080, 2017: n=6000

In %

34 4225

4736 37 34 37

44 3853

3537 34 44 44

8 7 8 711 12

9 53 3 2 1 4 4 2 38 8 6 7 8 10 10 93 2 5 2 4 4 1 1


other

only as a European

as a European first, and then as citizen ofmy country

as citizen of my country first, and then as aEuropean


38 44 46 45

21 2740

55

47 40 43 42

49 4236

26

9 7 6 8

8 87 4

2 2 2 2

4 44 4

3 4 1 317 16 9 10

2 2 2 1 1 2 4 2

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

A solid majority of young Europeans approves the EU membership of their country.

9

If a referendum was held tomorrow about the EU membership of your country: How would you vote?


In %

71

69

80

63

71

68

85

63

15

11

9

20

17

17

5

23

7

8

4

8

3

9

6

7

7

11

7

9

8

6

4

7

[Country] should stay in the EU [Country] should leave the EU I would not vote don't know/no response

In all countries, the approval of the EU membership has increased compared to 2017.

10


In %

7161 69

5880

69 6352

1521 11

19

912 20

31

7 8 8 114

7 8 97 10 11 13 7 12 9 8


I would not vote

[Country] should leave the EU

[Country] should stay in the EU

7159 68 61

8573

63 58

1726 17

22

512 23 27

3 5 9 86 8 7 7

8 10 6 9 4 7 7 8

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

If a referendum was held tomorrow about the EU membership of your country: How would you vote?

Young Italians, Poles, Spaniards and Brits think their country needs the EU more than the EU needs their country.

11

When you think about the relationship between your country and the EU: Which of the following statements do you most agree with?


In %

31

19

9

20

37

39

55

39

20

20

38

29

16

15

6

18

35

43

42

39

34

32

32

23

6

4

3

7

8

7

4

8

8

14

9

5

5

7

3

12

[country] needs the EU more than the EU needs the[country].

The EU needs [country] more than [country] needs theEU.

[Country] and the EU need each other equally.

Neither the EU nor [nountry] needs one another.


The share of those who think the relationship between their country and the EU is inderdependent has increased.

12


In %

31

30

19

19

9

9

20

20

37

36

39

44

55

54

39

29

20

23

20

23

38

41

29

29

16

18

15

19

6

9

18

25

35

29

43

35

42

35

39

36

34

29

32

20

32

22

23

23

6

7

4

7

3

2

7

7

8

9

7

9

4

8

8

8

8

11

14

17

9

13

5

7

5

8

7

8

3

7

12

15

[Country] needs the EU more than the EU needsthe United Kingdom

The EU needs [Country] more than [Country]needs the EU

[Country] and the EU need each other equally

Neither the EU nor [Country] needs one another


When you think about the relationship between your country and the EU: Which of the following statements do you most agree with?

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

FR DE GR IT PL ES UK

52 64 72 62 62 63 57

59 66 62 51 59 51 50

45 49 43 52 70 44 43

49 51 36 43 36 61 55

38 37 56 43 30 43 43

30 50 49 36 20 35 35

44 17 37 30 12 44 8

13 20 30 40 31 25 21

19 23 16 31 25 23 25

Human rights is the most important social value for young Europeans. Solidarity is important to French and Spaniards.

13

Which of these social values are most important to you personally? Please select up to 5 values. Part 1/2


In %; sorted by total; multiple answers possible; description: Top5 (green) und Bottom5 (purple) of the respective country

61

57

50

47

41

36

27

26

23

Human rights

Peace

Safety and security

Tolerance

Individual freedom

Democracy

Solidarity

Prosperity and economic success

Stability and reliability


30 20 8 30 29 19 21

11 25 25 6 17 16 20

23 8 7 15 18 11 16

10 8 17 9 26 6 9

7 6 2 15 7 12 9

7 6 4 1 14 8 7

2 2 1 1 1 1 5

1 1 0 1 0 0 2

The rule of law is relevant to young Germans, Greeks and Brits. Religion is important to Italians and Poles.

14

Which of these social values are most important to you personally? Please select up to 5 values. Part 2/2



22

17

14

12

8

7

1

2

Openness to the world

The rule of law

Intercultural understanding

Religion and faith

Shared culture

Political strength

None of these values



49 57 47 47 42 39 40

41 38 36 44 33 39 37

40 34 31 35 28 29 36

30 39 35 34 23 37 20

26 28 46 38 41 24 15

37 27 28 28 25 33 21

29 36 21 22 25 31 26

19 20 22 26 27 28 18

14 13 22 26 26 26 25

For young Europeans, the EU primearily stands for peace. Young French and Germans do not perceive a shared culture.

15

In your view, which of these values does the EU represent? Please select up to 5 values. Part 1/2



46

38

34

31

31

28

27

23

22

Peace in Europe

Human rights

Solidarity

Democracy


Safety and security


Tolerance

Shared culture


28 15 13 28 32 13 14

18 23 15 24 9 26 18

16 18 15 13 10 25 16

19 15 9 6 11 8 36

12 12 21 14 11 15 7

4 3 11 6 11 6 7

4 8 7 6 9 11 2

7 6 1 2 2 2 15

To young Brits, the EU represents strength. For young Poles, the EU stands for openness to the world.

16

In your view, which of these values does the EU represent? Please select up to 5 values. Part 2/2



20

19

16

15

13

7

7

5



The rule of law

Political strength on the global stage

Individual freedom

Religion and essentially Christian culture




72 75 70 75 73 76 67

64 72 60 69 74 72 72

60 71 62 68 65 62 57

53 60 52 60 55 58 55

64 64 64 61 41 70 29

48 30 41 43 49 30 30

36 32 32 42 51 39 38

28 31 54 26 34 51 24

30 26 30 43 34 33 34

9 8 7 3 5 2 19

Above all, young Europeans perceive the EU as an economic alliance, then as a coalition with open borders.

17

The EU has many tasks and meanings. In your view, which of the following tasks and meanings best describe the EU?



73

69

63

56

56

39

39

36

33

7

Economic alliance

Coalition of countries with open borders, where it is possible to travel, live and work freely

Alliance to ensure peace in Europe

Shared democratic and political principles

Alliance with a shared currency

Military alliance

Alliance of friendly countries

Alliance of convenience to pursue individual interests

Alliance of countries with shared cultural values


The perception of the EU has hardly changed since last year.

18

The EU has many tasks and meanings. In your view, which of the following tasks and meanings best describe the EU? Part 1/2


In %; sorted by EU 2018; multiple answers possible

70

60

62

52

64

41

32

54

30

7

72

69

57

46

66

40

36

52

29

6

75

72

71

60

64

30

32

31

26

8

75

70

71

62

59

29

30

32

26

9

2018 2017

72

64

60

53

64

48

36

28

30

9

77

66

64

48

65

43

38

29

28

8

73

69

63

56

56

39

39

36

33

7

76

70

63

56

57

39

41

35

30

6

Economic alliance

Coalition of countries with open borders, where it is possible to travel, live and work

freely




Military alliance





Young Poles are more likely to perceive the EU as a peacekeeping alliance than in 2017.

19

The EU has many tasks and meanings. In your view, which of the following tasks and meanings best describe the EU? Part 2/2


In %; sorted by EU 2018; multiple answers possible

67

72

57

55

29

30

38

24

34

19

71

72

66

55

34

33

43

24

31

14

76

72

62

58

70

30

39

51

33

2

79

69

61

58

68

36

42

45

28

3

2018 2017

73

74

65

55

41

49

51

34

34

5

80

71

58

62

45

51

55

35

32

2

75

69

68

60

61

43

42

26

43

3

79

70

66

59

63

43

43

28

36

2

Economic alliance

Coalition of countries with open borders, where it is possible to travel, live and work

freely




Military alliance





One out of three has already participated in an exchange programme. Brits and Poles are below average.

20

Have you ever participated in an exchange programme with other European countries (e.g. at school, university, with clubs or (youth)

organisations)?


In %

30

38

31

28

37

23

35

18

68

59

67

71

62

76

64

79

2

3

2

1

1

2

1

3

yes no don't know/no response

21


organisations)?

Basis: respondents who have participated in an exchange programme: n=1896; respondents who have not participated in an exchange programme: n=4081

In %

27

38

60

49

3

3

8

8


as citizen of my country and as an European

only as a European

other


Has particpated

Has not particpated

33

31

21

20

38

34

4

7

5

9

[country] needs the EU more than the EU needs the[country].

The EU needs [country] more than [country] needs the EU.

[Country] and the EU need each other equally.

Has particpated

Has not particpated

78

69

12

16

4

7

5

8

[Country] should stay in the EU

[Country] should leave the EU

I would not vote


Has particpated

Has not particpated

64

56

23

24

5

6

7

14

All in all, democracy is the best form of government

Democracy is just as good or bad as other forms ofgovernmentOther forms of government are better than democracy


Has particpated

Has not particpated

18

16

48

44

28

29

6

11

By and large, the political system in [country] works the wayit is supposed to.

The political system in [country] does not work, but it couldbe fixed with a few changes.

The political system in [country] works so badly that onlyradical change could fix it.

don't know / no response

Has particpated

Has not particpated

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Has paticipated Has not participated

Globalisation

Immigration and emigration

Open borders within the EU

Single currency within the EU (Euro)

Identity Relationship to the EU Approval of the EU

Approval of democracy Evaluation of democracy Perception as an opportunity

Young people who have participated in exchange programmes are more open towards Europe.

4

10

34

38

61

51

low level

medium level

high level


59

54

22

23

17

20

urban

suburban

rural


2

3

4

6

16

20

35

36

31

26

7

4

1 - poor household234567 - rich householddon't know/no response

44

43

56

57

16 to 20 years 21 to 26 years

12

18

37

42

47

32

low level

medium level

high level


46

52

54

48

male female

Has not particpated

22


organisations)?

Basis: respondents who have participated in an exchange programme: n=1896; respondents who have not participated in an exchange programme: n=4081

In %

Gender Education Perants‘ education (mother and father aggregated)

Age Economical status Place of residence

Has particpated

Has not particpated

Has particpated Has particpated

Has not particpated

Has particpated

Has not particpated

Has particpated

Has not particpated

Has particpated

Has not particpated

Young people who have participated in exchange programmes are of higher social and economic status.

POLITICAL ATTITUDES

Political Attitudes

24

Approval of democracy as a form of government has grown

compared to the previouus year. Overall, 58 percent of young

Europeans think that democracy is the best form of government.

Another 24 percent show an ambivalent attitude towards

democracy. Finally, six percent think that other froms of

government are better than democracy. Compared to the

previous year, aproval of democracy has increased by six points

(2017: 52 percent). Looking into specific countries, approval of

democracy has grown signifincantly in Germany, Italy, Poland and

Spain.

Nevertheless, young Europeans share a strong demand for

political change. Overall, not even one out of five (17 percent)

thinks that the political system works the way it is supposed to.

Almost half of young people (45 percent) thinks that the political

system needs change. Another 28 percent believes that only

radical change can fix the political system. While the share of

young people who think that the system works the way it is

supposed to is above average in Germany (39 percent), the

share of those demanding for radical change is high in Greece

(52 percent), Italy (43 percent) and Spain (35 percent) in

particular.

From a young Europeans perspective, fighting terrorism (44

percent), protecting the environment and the climate (34

percent) and regulating immigration (33 percent) are the most

important tasks the EU should take care of. Promoting economic

growth (39 percent), reducing social inequality (25 percent) and

fighting terrorism (29 percent) are the most important tasks on

a national level. Tasks related to security and environmental

policies are perceived as supranational tasks, those related to

economic and social policies are percieved as national tasks.

Promoting education and science is also considered a national

tasks. Despite the EU being strongly engaged in educational and

scientific policies, this tasks is being assigned to the national

sphere (EU: 17 percent, national: 26 percent).

Almost two out of three think that democracy is the best form of government. French and Poles are more skeptical.

25

When you think of democracy as a form of government: Which of the following statements do you agree with?


In %

58

44

67

69

57

49

65

56

24

30

17

18

29

34

21

19

6

7

3

5

6

6

8

3

12

19

13

8

8

12

6

21

All in all, democracy is the best form of government Democracy is just as good or bad as other forms of governmentOther forms of government are better than democracy don't know/no response

The approval of democracy as a form of government has increased – especially in Italy, Poland and Spain.

26

When you think of democracy as a form of government: Which of the following statements do you agree with?


In %;

58 52 44 42

67 62 69 66

2426

30 26

1718

18 226 9

7 123 6

5 612 13 19 20 13 15 8 6


Other forms of government are betterthan democracy

Democracy is just as good or bad asother forms of government

All in all, democracy is the best formof government

5745 49 42

65 57 56 53

2935 34

37

2124 19 20

6 10 6 138 10

3 6

8 9 12 9 6 921 21

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

A vast majority demands change – one out of four even

supports radical change.

27

When you think about the political system in your country, which of the following statements do you most agree with?


In %

17

18

39

6

5

13

11

25

45

45

42

37

47

47

51

44

28

22

8

52

43

28

35

11

10

15

11

5

5

12

4

20

By and large, the political system in [country]works the way it is supposed to.

The political system in [country] does not work,but it could be fixed with a few changes.

The political system in [country] works so badlythat only radical change could fix it.



55 59 54 70 47 59 55

43 41 36 39 37 58 59

31 34 44 44 37 47 40

33 32 37 32 30 41 38

22 33 27 33 21 46 61

26 29 36 28 28 39 19

22 20 30 39 30 36 13

Almost half of young Europeans has participated in an online petition, one out of three has posted a political online comment.

28

If you think back over the last twelve months, which of the following things did you do to express your opinion? Part 1/2

Have you…



... voted at the last election or referendum in your

country?

... participated in an online petition?

... publicly expressed my opinion in another

manner?

... posted a comment online about a political topic

on social media?

... signed a petition?

... reported a comment about a political topic on

social media?

... been involved in an advocacy group at a school,

university or company?


22 14 36 28 15 41 9

19 10 27 23 27 30 14

16 14 29 19 15 29 16

11 15 15 19 20 11 9

12 13 19 12 10 14 7

10 12 12 9 9 9 16

12 10 7 5 5 7 13

Compared to other Europeans, young Germans and Brits are less likely to take part in demonstrations.

29

If you think back over the last twelve months, which of the following things did you do to express your opinion? Part 2/2

Have you…



... took part in a demonstration?

... actively participated in a public initiative or a

local project?

... been involved in an non-governmental

organisation?

... been involved in a church community or church-

based group?

... been involved in a group you organised

yourself?

... personally contacted a politician?

... donated to a political party or organisation?

23

21

20

15

12

11

9

Young people with high socioeconomic status are more likely to participate online than others.

30

If you think back over the last twelve months, which of the following things did you do to express your opinion? (Auszug)


In %

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

low education level middle educationlevel

high education level

Posted a comment online about a political topic on social media

Reported a comment about a political topic on social media

Participated in an online petition

Signed a petition

Took part in a demonstration

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

low standard of living middle standard ofliving

high standard of living

Posted a comment online about a political topic on social media

Reported a comment about a political topic on social media


Signed a petition


31

Which of the following tasks are most important for the country / the EU over the next 5 years?

Please select the 3 tasks that are most important in your opinion.


In %; multiple answers possible

A Regulating immigration

B Promoting economic growth

C Reducing social inequality

D Protecting human rights and civil rights

E Strengthening the euro as a common currency

F Fighting terrorism

GIncreasing solidarity within [the own country / between the EU-Members]

H Protecting the environment and climate

IMaking democratic decisions more transparent for the public

J Increasing public participation in decisions

K Promoting education and science

LPromoting the internet, digitalisation and new technologies

Terrorism, immigration and climate change are most important for the EU, economics and inequality for nation states..

33

26

25

30

13

44

17

34

10

13

17

10

30

39

35

26

6

29

17

28

11

17

26

12

EU National

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%

Nati

onal

EU

Attribute of tasks for european & national Level

Terrorism and climate change are considered European tasks, economics and inequality are considered national tasks.

32

Which of the following tasks are most important for the country / the EU over the next 5 years? Please select the 3 tasks that are most important

in your opinion. Part 1/2


In %; sorted by most important EU tasks; multiple answers possible

43

25

41

26

31

23

20

22

18

14

10

6

2

3

14

15

44

26

53

28

30

21

24

9

9

10

1

2

38

43

29

28

12

26

20

16

16

12

21

11

1

6

29

40

32

21

12

37

30

11

15

6

29

10

1

6

EU National

45

39

25

30

22

30

8

17

16

15

8

10

1

7

47

37

25

23

25

41

12

20

15

8

9

9

1

6

44

34

33

30

26

25

17

17

13

13

10

10

1

5

29

28

30

26

39

35

26

17

17

6

12

11

1

4

Fighting terrorism

Protecting the environment and climate

Regulating immigration

Protecting human rights and civil rights

Promoting economic growth

Reducing social inequality

Promoting education and science

Increasing solidarity within [the own country / between the EU-Members]

Increasing public participation in decisions

Strengthening the euro as a common

currencyPromoting the internet, digitalisation and

new technologies

Making democratic decisions more transparent for the public

Other



In %; sorted by most important EU tasks; multiple answers possible

Promoting education and science is considered to be a national task rather than a European task.

33

37

35

21

33

23

24

14

17

11

5

6

19

1

13

33

31

20

27

34

39

21

16

10

2

7

12

2

11

45

34

23

34

35

35

17

14

12

18

7

8

1

2

32

26

18

30

47

46

24

16

19

7

5

11

3

2

EU National

61

28

46

27

25

15

18

18

8

12

11

8

1

4

29

23

25

34

46

21

33

23

16

5

14

13

2

3

38

37

45

29

37

25

21

14

13

13

8

6

1

2

19

24

47

24

54

32

32

11

18

8

11

11

1

Which of the following tasks are most important for the country / the EU over the next 5 years? Please select the 3 tasks that are most important

in your opinion. Part 2/2

Fighting terrorism







Increasing solidarity within [the own country / between the EU-Members]


Strengthening the euro as a common currency

Promoting the internet, digitalisation and new technologies


Other


34

Do you agree or disagree with the following statements? Part 1/3


In %; Top2Boxes [„partly agree“ + „totally agree“] and Bottom2Boxes [„partly disagree“ + „totally disagree“] are shown

Political decisions should always be based on

public welfare, and not on personal interests.

73 65 71 78 80 71 74 72

6 8 5 6 5 8 7 6

Political decisions should be as transparent as

possible, even if this means that it takes longer

for decisions to be made.

62 57 57 60 6754

73 67

9 10 8 12 8 12 6 8

The rights of minorities also need to be

protected against majority decisions.

53 55 49 54 5744

56 60

11 10 10 12 12 12 10 11

It would be better if important political decisions

were made by independent experts, and not by

elected politicians.

43 45 36 39 4256 47

37

19 17 21 21 20 12 17 26

Agree (partly/ totally agree) Disagree (partly/ totally disagree)

Transparency is important to young Spaniards, young Poles are more affine for technocratic decision making.

35




One always has to accept democratic decisions,

even if they go against one’s own interests.

43 4051

4152

34 3750

22 2413

24 19 28 25 18

No progress is being made because political

decisions always have to be compromises.

41 44 41 3647 38 35 44

19 13 19 25 19 18 19 20

Sometimes it is important to violate the rules of

democracy in order to make important changes

possible.26

34

24 20 27 28 28 23

39

31

42 50 40 35 37 41

Members of Parliament should vote according to

their consciences, even if the majority of the

public currently have a different opinion. 26 22 26 19 27 21 26

3841 41 3652 42 47 40

28


In Germany and France, four out of ten accept violating the rules of democracy. In Greece, this is true for one out of two.

36




It should be easier for the government to

implement its objectives, even if that means the

rights of the opposition need to be restricted.23 22 17 26 31 21 24 16

39 3545

33 32 39 41 45

There are no major differences between the

ideas and beliefs of the parties.

22 25 21 28 20 26 21 16

42 32 40 42 43 40 3955

Sometimes it is better for political decisions to be

made behind closed doors.

18 25 17 12 15 18 1325

5134

4960 61 52 58

46


Young Europeans reject non-transparent decision making. However, this attitude is less yet less pronounced in France.

Populist attitudes

37

Measuring populist attitudes, the survey contained 15 questions that

map three dimensions of populism:

1. Anti elitism

2. Belief in unrestricted popular sovereignty

3. Understanding the people as being homogenous and virtuous

Young Europeans were classified as having populist attitudes when

Junge Europäer wurden dann populistische Einstellungstendenzen

zugeschrieben, wenn

1. Approving 12 out of the set of 15 questions in total and

2. Approving at least two questions of each of these three

dimensions

The share of young people with populist attitudes ranges from seven

percent in Germany to 23 percent in Poland.

Young Europeans with populist attitudes do not necessarily reject

democracy as a form of government. However, they ecidently have a

different idea of democracy and political procedures. Almost two out

of three young people with populist attitudes (63 percent) think that

democracy is the best form of government. For comparison: Among

young people without populist attitudes, only 57 percent think that

democracy is the best form of government. Yet, young people with

populist attitudes are far more critical about how democracy is

organized and how the democratic system works. 39 percent think

that the political system works so badly that only radical change could

fix it (young people without populist attitudes: 26 percent).

Having populist attitudes goes along with distrusting representatives

of the political system (e.g., political parties: 71 percent vs. 61 percent;

public broadcasters: 52 percent vs. 42 percent). Political opinions of

those having populist attitudes provide guidance regarding perceived

shortcomings of the political system and the preferred type of

democracy. 74 percent think that democratic processes should be as

transparent as possible even if this is more time consuming. At the

same time, 64 percent would prefer technocratic decisions (decisions

made by non-elected experts) over decisions made by (elected)

politicians. 57 percent think that political processes are gridlocked due

to the need to compromise. 35 percent would accept if the rights of

the opposition would be restricted and if democratic rules would be

violated, respectively.

Apparently, populist attitudes go along with perceiving immigration as

a problem. 36 percent consider this to be one of the most important

policy area on a national level, another 38 percent on European level.

Almost half of those with populist attitudes (43 percent) perceives

immigration as a threat (young people without populist attitudes: 26

percent).

Definition, measurement and coding of populist attitudes

38

Items according to Schulz, A., Müller, P., Schemer, C., Wirz, D.S., Wettstein, M. & Wirth, W. (2017). Measuring Populist Attitudes on Three Dimensions. International Journal of Public Opinion Research.

Anti elitism

The Members of Parliament quickly lose contact with the public.

The differences between the public and the “elites” are far bigger than the differences

between members of the public.

People like me have no influence over what the government does.

Politicians do not care much what people like me think.

Politicians talk too much and get too little done.

Belief in

unrestricted

popular

sovereignty

The public should have the final say in political issues, by means of referendums.

The public should be asked during all important decisions.

The public should make the most important political decisions, not politicians.

The politicians in Parliament should comply with the will of the people.

Understanding

the people as

being

homogenous and

virtuous

The common people all pull together.

Common people are united by their good and honest character.

Common people share the same values and interests.

Although the [people] may have their differences, they all think the same way when it

matters.

The [people] are fundamentally upright and virtuous.

The [people] are a cohesive unit, and not just a whole lot of individual people.

Appro

val o

f 12 o

ut o

f 15 q

uestio

ns in

tota

l

Approval of at least 2 questions



Young Europeans with populist attitudes

39

Populist attitudes among young Europeans


In %

21

7

18

14

23

16

11

79

93

82

86

77

84

89

Populist attitudes No Populist attitudes

Young Europeans with populist attitudes ask for a different type of democracy.

40

When you think of democracy as a form of government: Which of the

following statements do you agree with?


In %

6357

24

24

56

813


Other forms of government arebetter than democracy

Democracy is just as good or badas other forms of government

All in all, democracy is the bestform of government

Young

europeans

without populist

attitudes

13 17

4345

39 26

511


Works so badly that only radicalchange could fix it

Does not work, but it could befixed with a few changes

By and large, works the way it issupposed to

Young

europeans with

populist

attitudes

Young

europeans

without populist

attitudes

Young

europeans with

populist

attitudes

When you think about the political system in your country, which of the

following statements do you most agree with?

Political decisions should be as transparent as possible, even if this means that it takes

longer for decisions to be made.

It would be better if important political decisions were made by independent experts,

and not by elected politicians.

No progress is being made because political decisions always have to be compromises.

It should be easier for the government to implement its objectives, even if that means

the rights of the opposition need to be restricted.

Sometimes it is important to violate the rules of democracy in order to make important

changes possible.

There are no major differences between the ideas and beliefs of the parties.

Young Europeans with populist attitudes are more likely to give up on essential constituents of democracy.

41

Do you agree or disagree with the following statements?


In %

74

64

57

35

35

35

60

39

38

20

25

20

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

Young europeans with populist attitudes Young europeans without populist attitudes



Fighting terrorism






Solidarity

Promoting the internet, digitalisation and new technologies


Strengthening the euro as a common currency

Other


Immigration and fighting terrorism are clearly more important to young people with populist attitudes.

42

Which of the following tasks are most important for the [country] over the next 5 years?

Which of the following tasks are most important for the EU over the next 5 years?


In %

42

36

36

34

27

25

22

22

20

10

10

6

0

1

38

29

28

35

28

26

16

27

16

12

11

6

2

5

Young europeans with populist attitudes

Young europeans without populist attitudes

29

38

53

24

31

29

14

16

16

9

10

14

1

2

26

32

42

26

35

30

13

17

17

10

9

12

1

6

National Level EU

Political parties

Government

Parliament

Public broadcasters

Churches

Private media

Banks

Large companies and corporations

Trade unions

Institutions of the EU

Courts

The police

Science and scientists

Young people with populist attitudes are less likely to trust politics and public broadcasters than others.

43

How much do you trust the following organisations and groups?


In %

71

64

62

52

46

45

44

39

37

36

32

18

6

8

17

17

22

29

23

30

26

27

34

40

58

76

I do not generally trust / not trust them at all

I do generally trust / trust them completely

Young europeans with populist

attitudes

61

52

47

42

50

44

43

42

33

28

26

19

7

8

18

19

21

20

15

24

17

23

33

38

51

70

Young europeans without populist

attitudes


Posted a comment online about a political topic on social media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter)

Signed a petition

Reported a comment about a political topic on social media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter)

Been involved in an advocacy group at a school, university or company


Actively participated in a public initiative or a local project

Been involved in an non-governmental organisation (e.g. human rights group, environmental group, aid organisation)

Been involved in a church community or church-based group

Been involved in a group you organised yourself

Personally contacted a politician (by telephone, post, email or social media)

Donated to a political party or organisation

Publicly expressed my opinion in another manner

Young people with populist attitudes are more likely to talk about political topics in social networks.

44

If you think back over the last twelve months, which of the following things did you do to express your opinion?


In %

42

38

31

30

28

26

25

21

17

13

11

9

41

45

34

35

29

27

23

21

19

14

12

11

9

39




The rule of law


Religion and faith

Shared culture

Political strength



Human rights

Peace

Safety and security

Tolerance

Individual freedom

Democracy

Solidarity



Peace, security and freedom are more important as social values to young Europeans with populist attitudes.

45

Which of these social values are most important to you personally? Please select up to 5 values.


In %

61

63

56

39

38

39

28

27

26

62

56

48

49

42

36

27

26

23



21

16

16

16

9

7

1

1

23

17

14

12

8

7

1

2

There are no differences regarding usage of the Internet in general. Yet, sources used differ significantly.

46

Where do you generally obtain the most information about politics?


In %

Facebook

Websites of (daily) newspapersand news magazines

YouTube

News websites ofnon-journalistic service providers

Independent blogs

Twitter

Forums

Websites of public broadcasters

Email newsletters

Websites of tabloid newspapers

Other sources


The Internet is not used as a sourcefor political information

83

17

81

19

Use the Internet for political information

Do not use the Internet for political information


attitudes


attitudes

54

35

28

23

22

18

16

14

11

8

7

1

17

43

34

28

19

17

19

13

15

8

7

8

2

19



Donald Trump as President of the USA

Political parties that reject the EU

Immigration and emigration

The United Kingdom leaving the EU (“Brexit”)



Globalisation

Digitalisation

Young Europeans with populist attitudes perceive immigration to a much larger extent as a threat than others.

47

Do you view the following phenomenon as a threat to or an opportunity for your own life?


In %

54

44

43

34

26

23

20

14

15

16

25

16

52

46

44

59

Threat

Opportunity


attitudes

58

44

26

35

18

16

16

9

11

11

31

13

53

46

44

55


attitudes

MEDIA USAGE

Media Usage

49

Predominantly, young Europeans use the Internet (82 percent)

and TV 63 percent) for obtaining information about politics.

Other sources are less relevant (personal conversations: 41

percent, radio: 34 percent, newspapers and news magazines: 30

percent). Regarding information behaviour on the Internet, social

networks are highly relevant. Almost half of young people (44

percent) use Facebook for obtaining information about politics.

Websites of newspapers and news magazines (34 percent) are

ranked second, followed by YouTube (28 percent). Other online

sources are far less relevant.

In general, young people are skeptical towards media outlets.

Trust in public broadcasters is on average at best. In France,

Germany, Italy and the UK, trust in public broadcasters is on

average. In Greece, Poland and Spain, young people’s trust in

public broadcasters is below average. In Germany and the UK,

young people trust public broadcasters more than private media

(Germany: 35 percent vs. 16 percent, UK: 33 percent vs. nine

percent). In France, Spain, Italy and Greece, trust in public

broadcasters and private media is on the same level. In Poland,

however, young people show greater trust in private media (24

percent) than in public broadcasters (13 percent).

When it comes to trust in specific types of media, newspapers

and news magazines are still strong brands even in a digitized

age. Printed versions of newspapers and news magazines (37

percent, most trusted) and their respective websites (35 percent,

third most trusted) are trusted sources. Outlets of public

broadcasters are also highly trusted (radio: 36 percent, second

most trusted; TV: 33 percent, fourth most trusted; websites: 30

percent, fifth most trusted). However, trust in outlets by public

broadcasters varies by countries (highly trusted in France,

Germany and the UK; less trusted in Greece, Italy, Poland).

Given Facebook being highly relevant as a source for political

information, it is noteworthy that young Europeans do trust

Facebook only to a low extent (17 percent). In France. Germany,

Spain and the UK, Facebook is one of the least trusted source. In

Greece, Italy and Poland, trust in Facebook is on average.

28

14

9

7

5

3

6

43

38

30

27

20

20

15

17

26

30

31

28

34

24

4

12

17

17

25

20

20

3

7

10

13

18

14

29

5

3

5

6

4

9

5

I trust them completely I generally trust them Neither agree nor disagree

I do not generally trust them I do not trust them at all don't know / no response


66 65 68 77 66 78 77

53 62 30 56 46 50 64

43 58 30 30 31 23 54

33 37 24 42 32 36 30

26 22 17 23 43 13 28

26 34 9 19 24 21 32

26 19 23 19 29 11 24

Trust in science, the police and courts is highest. European institutions are ranked fourth.

50

How much do you trust the following organisations and groups? Part 1/2


In %; sorted by Top2Box total [„I trust them completely “ + „I generally trust them“]; Description: Top3 (green) und Bottom3 (purple) of the Top2Boxes of the respective country

Science and scientists

The police

Courts

Institutions of the EU

Banks

Trade unions

Churches

Young Poles distrust public broadcasters more strongly than private media outlets.

51

How much do you trust the following organisations and groups? Part 2/2



3

3

3

3

3

2

18

16

16

15

14

7

31

35

27

24

33

25

25

27

27

27

26

32

18

14

23

27

18

31

4

5

5

4

6

4




25 35 11 18 13 15 33

22 11 17 29 23 16 12

26 35 6 13 13 15 23

26 32 7 14 15 11 20

22 16 9 19 24 15 9

12 14 3 8 8 6 8

Public broadcasters

Large companies and corporations

Parliament

Government

Private media

Political parties


76 82 88 83 90 79 74

66 57 56 73 65 75 48

32 47 50 17 54 47 40

36 42 29 27 54 25 25

34 34 18 43 28 36 17

5 9 8 5 8 8 7

5 5 6 7 9 5 7

6 4 1 2 3 2 11

When it comes to political information, the Internet is the most important source for young Europeans.

52

There are many ways to stay informed about current political events. Where do you generally obtain the most information about politics? Please

select all the sources that you use.


In %; sorted by total; multiple answers possible; Description: Top3 (green) und Bottom3 (purple) of the respective country

82

63

41

34

30

7

6

4

Internet

Television

Personal conversations

Radio

(Daily) newspapers and news magazines (print

editions)

Other sources

Tabloid newspapers



45 29 58 51 62 36 29

26 39 34 30 37 40 33

27 27 32 30 35 27 15

13 18 28 21 23 21 14

25 12 10 13 12 37 25

9 10 39 23 20 15 9

6 25 11 5 23 10 25

Facebook is crucial as a source for political information.

53

Where online do you usually find the most information about politics? Part 1/2



44

34

28

20

19

18

15

Facebook

Websites of newspapers and news magazines

YouTube

News websites of non-journalistic service

providers

Twitter

Independent blogs



10 8 21 16 19 14 6

10 8 14 9 6 7 7

8 9 9 8 10 6 8

4 6 9 4 11 4 10

2 2 1 2 3 0 2

24 18 12 17 10 21 26

Other sources are of far less importance when it comes to political information.

54

Where online do you usually find the most information about politics? Part 2/2



13

9

8

7

2

18

Forums

Emails newsletters

Other sources



The Internet is not used as a source

for political information

Public broadcasters are highly trusted in France, Germany and the UK.

55

How much do you trust the following information sources in general? Part 1/2



6

6

5

6

5

5

3

31

30

30

27

25

21

23

35

35

35

31

37

39

38

16

15

16

18

17

21

18

7

8

7

12

8

8

8

6

7

7

5

8

6

9




50 54 26 38 28 32 29

43 53 24 30 26 27 43

40 51 25 30 33 30 32

44 53 14 28 22 24 48

34 47 21 19 21 24 40

31 18 27 32 34 23 17

34 28 21 25 34 23 20

(Daily) newspapers and news magazines

(print editions)

Public television broadcasters

Websites of newspapers and news

magazines

Public television broadcasters


YouTube

Private radio broadcasters

3

3

4

3

2

2

20

18

16

14

12

10

37

39

34

35

30

32

21

22

22

26

25

26

12

9

13

16

20

19

7

9

11

5

10

10




33 22 13 26 28 22 21

23 15 19 22 28 21 15

23 11 15 22 23 26 17

23 8 15 20 27 19 10

22 11 13 15 17 13 12

17 10 12 12 13 12 12

While using Facebook heavily as a source for political information, young Europeans have little trust in it.

56

How much do you trust the following information sources in general? Part 2/2



Private television broadcasters

News websites of non-journalistic service

providers

Twitter

Facebook

Tabloid newspapers


OUTLOOK INTO THE FUTURE

Outlook into the Future

58

In 2018, young Europeans perceive immigration less frequently

as an opportunity (2018: 30 percent, 2017: 34 percent) and more

frequently as a thread (2018: 29 percent, 2017: 29 percent) than

in the previous year. Especially in Germany, Spain, Italy, Greece

and Poland, attitudes have changed compared to 2017.

Regarding issues related to the EU, country-specific changes are

obeserved. Compared to 2017, the EURO is more likely to be

considered as an opportunity in Germany (2018: 67 percent,

2017: 56 percent), Greece (2018: 41 percent, 2017: 38 percent),

Italy (2018: 54 percent, 2017: 47 percent) and Spain (2018: 63

percent, 2017: 57 percent). Political parties that reject the EU are

evaluated more skeptical in France, Italy, Greece, Poland, Spain

and the UK. The share of young Europeans who think that

BREXIT is an opportunity has decreased. In Germany (2018: 38

percent, 2017: 33 percent) and in the UK (2018: 53 percent,

2017: 49 percent), more young people consider BREXIT as a

thread than in the previous year.

The perception of globalisation has also changed in specific

countries. While the perception of globalisation is consistent with

those of the previous year on an overall level (2018: 44 percent

opportunity, 16 percent threat; 2017: 43 percent opportunity, 19

percent threat), young Germans (2018: 53 percent opportunity,

2017: 47 percent opportunity) as well as young French (2018: 36

percent opportunity, 2017: 29 percent opportunity) are more

positive towards globalisation than in 2017. For young Greeks,

the globalisation has become less threatening (2018: 24 percent

threat, 2017: 37 percent threat). Young Poles, however, have

become far more insecure about the globalisation and perceive it

less frequently as an opportunity (2018: 40 percent opportunity,

2017: 48 percent opportunity).

The Trump presidency is consistently perceived as a threat

(eleven percent opportunity, 57 percent threat). Solely young

Poles think that the Trump presidency is rather an opportunity

(29 percent) than a threat (25 percent).

59

Do you view the following phenomenon as a threat to or an opportunity for your own life? Part 1/2


In %

Globalisation

53 4656 47 52 59 62

48

19 20 18 26 19 19 12 22



44 3653

3553

4053

39

16 19 1224 15 19 14 13

Opportunity Threat

Digitization is perceived as an opportunity, especially by young Germans, Italians, Poles and Brits.

Digitization

5645

66

38

7058 66

46

10 11 9 15 6 8 6 12

46 4967

4154

33

63

12

17 11 717 13

34

728

60

Do you view the following phenomenon as a threat to or an opportunity for your own life? Part 2/2


In %

Immigration and emigration30

23

30

24 22 30

39 41

29

30

29

33 34 38

17 19

The United Kingdom leaving the EU (“Brexit”)

14 13 9 13 14 15 922

35 2838 28 30 34 36

53


11 7 8 7 12

29

7 9

57 65 67 57 53

25

70 65

Opportunity Threat

Regarding immigration, young Europeans are divided. Except among young Poles, Trump is perceived as a threat.


12 11 10 12 12 17 9 13

44 3949

3749 44 48 42

Compared to last year, digitization is more likely to be seen as an opportunity, immigration more as a threat.

61



In %

56 52 53 52 44 43 46 43

23 24 20 20 28 26 28 29

10 11 19 20 16 19 17 20

11 13 8 8 11 12 10 9


Threat

Neither

Opportunity

30 3414 17 12 15 11

33 32

39 3731 31

23

29 2635 35

44 41 57

8 8 12 12 13 13 9

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 2018

DigitizationOpen borders within the EU

Immigration andemigration

The United Kingdom leaving the EU




Globalisation

Young French evaluate globalisation more positively than in 2017.

62


45 44 46 45 36 2949 52

30 28 25 24 3437

30 27

11 11 20 23 1917

11 1313 17 9 8 11 17 10 9


Threat

Neither

Opportunity

23 2513 17 11 14 7

39 3446 41

37 33

21

30 32 28 3039 38

65

9 10 13 13 14 15 7

Base: all respondents from France, 2018: n=1025, 2017: n=1000

In %

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 2018







Globalisation

Young Germans are far more optimistic regarding digitization and the Euro than in the previous year.

63


6650 56 52 53 47

6756

18

26 19 21 2627

2127

915 18 18 12 15

7 86 9 7 9 10 12 6 8


Threat

Neither

Opportunity

30 32

9 13 10 12 8

35 36

43 4129 30

19

29 2438 33

49 45 67

7 9 10 12 11 13 6

Base: all respondents from Germany, 2018: n=1000, 2017: n=1000

In %

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 2018







Globalisation

Young Greeks perceive immigration more as a threat than in the previous year.

64


Base: all respondents from Greece, 2018: n=510, 2017: n=500

In %

38 3847 49

35 34 41 38

32 32 20 2035

24

34 35

15 15 26 26 2437

17 2214 15 7 5 7 6 7 5


Threat

Neither

Opportunity

24 3313 15 12 18

7

3634

46 4938

40

28

33 2728

2737

34

57

7 6 12 9 13 8 8

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 2018







Globalisation

Young Italians have become more skeptical towards immigration.

65


Base: all respondents from Italy, 2018: n=1025, 2017: n=1000

In %

70 6752 57 53 56 54 47

20 21

24 22 27 24 2831

6 719 15 15 15 13 17

4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5


Threat

Neither

Opportunity

22 2814 19 12 17 12

40 3748 42

30 2929

34 30 30 3249 45 53

4 5 8 7 9 9 6

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 2018







Globalisation

In 2018, young Poles are more likely to perceive immigration and gloablisation as a threat than in 2017.

66


Base: all respondents from Poland, 2018: n=507, 2017: n=500

In %

58 61 59 5940 48

33 34

14 12 12 10

1920

16 15

8 11 19 22

1918

34 38

19 16 10 922 14 17 13


Threat

Neither

Opportunity

30 38

15 18 17 21 29

1715

28 25 1921

24

3834

34 36 4443 25

15 1324 21 20 16 21

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 2018







Globalisation

Perceiving immigration as an opportunity has decreased among young Spaniards.

67


Base: all respondents from Spain, 2018: n=1013, 2017: n=1000

In %

66 61 62 58 53 5163 57

25 26 21 23 28 29

2729

6 7 12 14 14 137 9

4 6 4 5 5 8 3 5


Threat

Neither

Opportunity

39 46

9 12 9 11 7

4036

49 4335 36

20

17 13

36 3848 43

70

4 5 7 8 7 10 3

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 2018







Globalisation

Freedom of movement is more likely to be an opportunity for young Brits in 2018.

68


Base: all respondents from UK, 2018: n=1000, 2017: n=1000

In %

46 43 48 44 39 37

12 13

24 25 18 19 27 23

41 38

12 10 22 24 1315 28 32

19 2212 13 21 24 19 17


Threat

Neither

Opportunity

41 3822 24

13 16 9

27 30

14 1625 26

17

19 21

53 4942 38 65

13 12 11 1120 21

9

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 2018







Globalisation

More than half of young Europeans are pessimistic regarding their living standard improving.

69

When you think about your parents’ generation: Do you think your own generation will be better or worse off in terms of income and quality of

life?


In %

4

3

7

1

2

11

3

3

20

19

30

11

13

38

15

13

15

18

21

9

14

15

16

12

35

30

27

41

46

20

43

38

19

20

6

35

20

7

19

22

7

11

9

3

4

9

3

13

Much better Somewhat better It will remain the same Somewhat worse Much worse don't know/no response

Compared to 2017, Italians, Spaniards and Brits have become more pessimistic – young Poles more optimstic.

70

When you think about your parents’ generation: Do you think your own generation will be better or worse off in terms of income and quality of

life?


In %

4 5 3 4 7 7 1 2

20 21 19 1630 30

11 10

15 16 18 16

21 21

9 5

35 3530 38

27 28

4141

19 1720 17

6 535 41

7 6 11 8 9 9 3 2


Much worse

Somewhat worse

It will remain the same

Somewhat better

Much better

2 4 11 11 3 3 3 513 18

38 36

15 21 1318

1415

15 22

1618

1212

4641

2021

4338

3839

20 17 76

19 16

2219

4 5 9 5 3 413 7

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

20172018 20172018 20172018 20172018

IMPRINT

Imprint

Editor

TUI Stiftung

Karl-Wiechert-Allee 4

30625 Hannover

[email protected]

www.tui-stiftung.de

Research

YouGov Deutschland GmbH

Gustav-Heinemann-Ufer 72

50968 Köln

[email protected]

www.yougov.de

72

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.tui-stiftung.de/

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.yougov.de/

Documents

EUROPEAN YOUTH - TUI Stiftung › wp-content › uploads › 2018 › 05 › YouGo… · EUROPEAN YOUTH - 2018 - Report. Contents 1. Study Design (p. 3-4) 2. Perception Of The European