The recent Shell Youth Study 2024 reveals a notable shift in the political landscape among young men in Germany, with one in four identifying as conservative, marking an increase as compared to less than 20% in the previous survey conducted in 2019. The survey included 2,509 respondents aged 12 to 25 years, highlighting a rise in right-wing identification primarily among young males, contrasting sharply with young women, of whom only 11% aligned themselves with conservative politics. Despite this political divide, young women are significantly more inclined towards progressive causes, with a majority advocating for diversity, feminism, and veganism.
The disparity in political ideology between young men and women is not confined to Germany but reflects a broader trend observed globally. For instance, a Gallup poll indicated a substantial leftward tilt among young women in the United States when compared to their male peers, as well as similar political divides noted in countries like the UK, China, South Korea, and Tunisia. These findings suggest a growing polarization between the political perspectives of young men and women as societal values evolve.
In Germany, the increasing identification of young men as right-wing coincides with an upsurge in support for the populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Recent trends indicate that the AfD has gained significant traction among young voters, becoming their party of choice, particularly among the 14 to 29 age group. This shift is further evidenced by recent state elections in Thuringia and Saxony, where the youth vote predominantly favored the AfD over other political parties, underscoring a potential realignment in youth political engagement.
The Shell survey also sheds light on the growing sentiments of populism among young people in Germany. A considerable 55% of respondents expressed skepticism towards state measures, feeling that these initiatives do not personally benefit them. This disillusionment is coupled with a substantial proportion of youth—48%—believing that the government prioritizes the needs of refugees over its own citizens, showcasing an emerging frustration regarding national policy priorities.
Furthermore, a significant number of young people in Germany hold the belief that a “strong hand” is needed to re-establish order within the state, with 44% endorsing this notion—up from 33% in the 2019 survey. This sentiment illustrates an increasing demand for decisive governance amid rising concerns regarding domestic issues. An alarming 81% of youth identified potential conflict in Europe as their foremost fear, likely reflecting wider geopolitical anxieties, while 67% cited concerns over poverty and economic instability as pressing challenges.
In conclusion, this ongoing evolution in the political beliefs of young men and women in Germany raises critical questions about societal values and ideological divides. The rising right-wing sentiment among young men, juxtaposed with the progressive leanings of young women and their alignment with issues like diversity, feminism, and environmentalism, indicates a growing generational gap. As populist sentiments gain ground amidst concerns over national priorities and governance, the findings of the Shell Youth Study 2024 underscore a complex landscape that may influence Germany’s political future in the coming years.
