A Eurobarometer survey indicates that 60% of Europeans are very or somewhat interested in the forthcoming European Parliament election, up from 49% in 2019. This represents a significant increase in interest compared to five years ago. During elections, talk about jobs, health, poverty, and defence is frequent. Remarkably, 81% of participants believe that international problems like the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine have made voting more important.
In a video statement, President Roberta Metsola of the European Parliament highlighted the serious consequences. France, on the other hand, displayed apathetic attitudes towards the European Parliament, with the lowest percentage of any member state—just 27%.
Even though the Eurobarometer focuses more on public opinion than party support, recent surveys indicate that among the 720 parliamentarians, nationalist and EU-sceptic parties—especially those on the far right—are making gains. The top campaign issues were public health (32%) and poverty (33%), followed by the economy, job development, defence, and security (all at 31%).
Concern over climate change dropped to fifth place, according to 27% of respondents. Although 71% of Europeans say they would vote, up from 61% in 2019, historically, actual turnout has lagged behind intentions. 50.66% of voters turned out for the 2019 election, the highest percentage since 1994.
