"Generation Z and the Crisis of Democratic Faith in Europe

Generation Disillusioned: The Democratic Crisis Among Europe’s Youth

Written by: Huzaifa Khan

Introduction

In 2025, a YouGov study commissioned by the Tui Foundation revealed a growing crisis of faith in democracy among European youth. Only 57% of those aged 16–26 believe democracy is the best form of government. This essay explores the root causes of this disillusionment and argues that while frustrations are valid, the solution lies in reforming—not rejecting—democracy.

1. Support for Democracy Is Declining

Survey Overview

Country Support for Democracy Support for Authoritarian Rule

Germany 71% 15%

France ~51% 23%

Spain ~52% 23%

Poland 48% 23%

Italy Not stated 24%

Key Insight: While Germany shows strong democratic support, countries like Poland, France, and Spain fall below the 55% threshold—suggesting a worrying legitimacy gap.

2. Why Is Faith in Democracy Eroding?

A. Economic Discontent

Youth unemployment, housing crises, and rising costs of living are driving skepticism.

Among right-leaning, economically disadvantaged youth, support for democracy drops to just 33%.

B. Institutional Disillusionment

Only 6% of respondents believe their national government functions well.

53% feel the EU focuses on trivial issues instead of major challenges like cost of living or defense.

3. Openness to Authoritarianism

21% of young Europeans say they would support authoritarian rule in some circumstances.

This reflects frustration with democratic gridlock and demand for quicker, more decisive leadership.

However, this trend threatens core democratic principles.

4. Political Polarization and Gender Divide

Group Trend

Young women (e.g. Germany, France) Growing progressive identification

Young men (e.g. Poland, Greece) Increasing conservatism

Concern: This ideological divergence deepens social and political divides, weakening compromise and democratic cohesion.

5. The EU’s Role in the Democratic Image

Only 42% of youth see the EU as a top global player.

39% describe the EU as not particularly democratic.

Still, two-thirds want their countries to remain in the EU.

support is highest in the UK, where 73% want to rejoin the EU.

6. Climate vs. Economic Priorities

Priority Support (2025) Support (2021)

Climate over economy 33% 44%

Interpretation: As economic anxiety increases, environmental concerns take a back seat, even among younger generations previously seen as climate-first.

7. Solutions: Reform, Not Rejection

A. Responsive Economic Policy

Prioritize affordable education, housing, and youth job programs.

B. Participatory Democracy

Introduce youth assemblies, digital referenda, and civic education.

C. EU Reform

Streamline operations, address big issues, and improve communication.

Final Reflection: The Role of Education and Media

One critical factor often overlooked in discussions of democratic erosion is the role of civic education and media literacy. As misinformation spreads rapidly online, many young Europeans struggle to distinguish between legitimate political critique and manipulative propaganda. This digital confusion can amplify frustration, polarize views, and make authoritarian alternatives seem deceptively appealing. Strengthening civic education in schools—teaching not only how institutions function but why democracy matters—is essential for rebuilding resilience. Similarly, independent media and platforms that engage youth in constructive political discourse must be protected and promoted. Young people are not apathetic; they are overwhelmed by complexity and discouraged by inaction. Empowering them with the tools to participate meaningfully—and critically—in democratic life is the key to reversing the current trend. If democracy is to endure, it must be taught, practiced, and experienced as something that delivers justice, voice and opportunity for all.

Conclusion

Young Europeans are not rejecting democracy outright—they are demanding that it work better. Rising support for authoritarianism and declining belief in democratic systems are symptoms of deeper structural failures. The path forward lies not in abandoning democracy, but in reimagining it to serve the real and urgent needs of the next generation.

References

Cole, D. (2025, July 4). Young Europeans losing faith in democracy, poll finds. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jul/04/young-europeans-losing-faith-in-democracy-poll-finds

YouGov & Tui Foundation. (2025). Youth Study 2025: Attitudes of young Europeans toward democracy and the EU. [Survey Report]. https://www.tui-stiftung.de/en/youth-study

Faas, T. (2025). Comments on youth democracy attitudes. In Cole, D. (2025, July 4), Young Europeans losing faith in democracy, poll finds. The Guardian.