Polarisation, disinformation, trust: do young French people think like other young Europeans?

This roundtable explored the dynamics of citizen participation and the challenges related to trust in institutions and the media. The discussions highlighted the differences in political perceptions among young Europeans, the effects of polarisation and strategies to encourage constructive debate. The importance of civic education and the role of the media were also discussed.

In our latest study “Voices for Choices” published in April, Debating Europe – Friends of Europe’s citizen engagement unit – dived deep into the experiences and expectations of young people aged 18 to 35 in Denmark, France, Germany, Italy and Poland — over 2,000 of them — revealing what they want from the future, and from those in power. What emerges is a generation that’s ready to lead.

To make sure the findings receive the visibility and follow-up they deserve, we’re organising a series of local events in the five target countries bringing together citizens, policymakers and experts in interactive in-person discussions to unpack the issues identified in the report and propose potential solutions.