Populists in Europe – especially those on the right – have increased their vote shares in recent elections
Elections in Italy and Sweden have underscored the growing electoral strength that populist parties have displayed in Europe in recent years.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
Elections in Italy and Sweden have underscored the growing electoral strength that populist parties have displayed in Europe in recent years.
Nearly six-in-ten Italians (57%) have a favorable opinion of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, while 41% have a negative one.
We asked respondents in both countries to, in their own words, define what democracy means to them. Most commonly, people mention three broad concepts: freedom and human rights, elections and procedures, and having a voice in government.
Focus groups with young adults in France, Germany and the United Kingdom revealed that these young people see the U.S. as the “world’s policeman” with a self-interested history of interventionism, while China is labeled the “world’s factory,” respected for its economic dominance but criticized for its expansionism and human rights violations.
As democratic nations have wrestled with economic, social and geopolitical upheaval in recent years, the future of liberal democracy has come into question. Our international surveys reveal key insights into how citizens think about democratic governance.
Favorable opinions of Russia and Putin have declined sharply among Europe’s populists following Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine.
Most think social media has made it easier to manipulate and divide people, but they also say it informs and raises awareness.
Most say U.S. is reliable partner, and ratings for Biden are mostly positive – although down significantly from last year.
Dissatisfaction with the functioning of democracy is linked to concerns about the economy, the pandemic and social divisions.
Majorities say the democratic principles tested on our survey are at least somewhat important. But often, underwhelming percentages describe democratic rights and institutions as very important.
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