The June European Parliament elections saw a significant turnout of 51%, up from previous years, with the cost of living crisis playing a major role in driving people to the polls. According to a report by the EU Parliament, 42% of voters cited the rising cost of living as an important issue, while concerns around democracy, the rule of law, and the international situation also played significant roles in voters’ candidate choices.
Interestingly, gender equality and the digitalization of Europe’s economy and society were found to be the least influential factors in voters’ decision-making process, impacting only 7% and 6% of voters, respectively. Less than a third of voters viewed migration and climate change as primary issues. Despite the overall increase in voter turnout, the 15–24 age group had the highest abstention rate at 64%, with reasons including lack of trust in politics, lack of interest, being away from home, and being too busy or at work.
Among social groups, the unemployed had the highest abstention rate at 71%, while managers showed the highest participation at 63%. Despite the high abstention rates among certain groups, the majority of the youngest voters viewed EU membership positively, with 71% saying their country has benefited from being part of it. The report also highlighted the overall lack of trust in politics as one of the main reasons for abstention, with 21% citing it as a factor, along with a general lack of interest (20%).
Overall, the 2024 EU elections saw a higher turnout compared to previous years, with the cost of living crisis and concerns around democracy and the rule of law driving many voters to the polls. While some issues like gender equality and digitalization had minimal impact on voters’ decision-making process, a lack of trust in politics and a general lack of interest were significant factors contributing to nearly 50% of voter abstention. Despite this, the majority of young voters view EU membership positively, suggesting a potential shift in attitudes towards EU integration among younger generations.
