A recent study by a Danish-based think tank indicates a significant shift in public opinion, particularly among Germans, regarding government priorities. The study, commissioned by the Alliance of Democracies Foundation, highlights a growing emphasis on immigration control over climate change mitigation efforts.
Since 2022, there has been a notable rise in the proportion of Europeans advocating for government action to reduce immigration, with Germany leading the trend. Conversely, concern about climate change has declined across the continent.
The report underscores that reducing immigration has become a primary focus for many Europeans, surpassing climate change as a government priority. Notably, Germany now boasts the highest share of individuals advocating for immigration reduction, with nearly twice as many prioritizing this issue over climate change.
Surveyed in 53 countries, the study reflects global attitudes toward democracy, government priorities, and international relations. It identifies war and violent conflict as the greatest perceived threats globally, followed by poverty and hunger, with climate change ranking lower in priority.
Disillusionment with democracy is noted as prevalent in regions with established democratic traditions, including the US and Europe. Former NATO chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen emphasizes the importance of addressing voter concerns to uphold democratic values and warns of the risk of losing support to autocratic regimes.
The study serves as a “wake-up call” for democratic governments, highlighting the need to listen to citizen concerns and defend democratic principles in the face of shifting priorities.