Politics and societal issues are increasingly sparking controversy in mainstream politics and everyday conversations. A new study conducted in Italy, France, Germany, Denmark, and Poland revealed that friends are the preferred confidantes for political discussions in most countries, although Denmark stands out with parents being the main source for conversation. The research from Debating Europe focused on the views of 2,000 people aged between 18 and 35, showing that a small percentage of participants actively avoid political talk. The majority of respondents view politicians, social media, and traditional media as central forces that are dividing society and believe that policymakers should have a clear understanding of citizens’ views, especially young people who face the consequences of political decisions.
Political divisions within social circles vary across the five EU countries, with a significant portion aligning politically with their partners. However, intergenerational divisions are more common in France and Italy, with youth more likely to disagree with their parents. The majority of respondents in France, Italy, and Poland report sharing political views with friends, while the percentage is even higher in Germany. In the workplace, Polish respondents are more likely to agree with their colleagues compared to those in Denmark. Online discussions often reveal disagreements, except in Denmark and Poland, with better education being considered the cornerstone of social cohesion among all countries. Addressing economic inequalities and banning anti-democratic parties are also seen as potential solutions for reducing societal divisions, particularly in Germany and Italy.
AI is also playing a role in shaping political opinions among youth in the EU, with a significant percentage of Danish respondents admitting that their opinions have been affected by AI-generated content. In Germany, opinions are split, with some unsure if AI has influenced them. Italian, French, and Polish participants, however, largely report that their opinions remain unaffected by AI output. Concerns about AI manipulating democratic processes vary across countries, with some seeing AI as neither entirely harmful nor empowering. Despite this, the impact of AI on political opinions is a pressing issue for many young people in the EU.
Overall, the study highlights the importance of political discourse within social circles and the influence of AI on shaping political opinions among youth in the EU. It underscores the need for policymakers to engage with citizens, particularly young people, in order to address societal divisions and better understand the impact of technology on shaping political views. As issues like migration, war, gender equality, and the economy continue to generate controversy, it is crucial for individuals to engage in informed and respectful discussions to promote social cohesion and democratic values in society.
