Public Opinion Supports EU Focus on Demographic Decline

A recent survey by the Mária Kopp Institute for Demography and Families (KINCS) reveals that Hungarians are deeply concerned about Europe’s demographic challenges and believe the EU should prioritize family support and childbearing.

Key findings include:

• 88% believe the EU should pay more attention to families
• 78% support Hungary raising awareness about family support during its EU presidency
• 78% think the EU faces serious demographic problems
• 73% believe these issues threaten Europe’s future
• 66% feel the EU is “doing nothing” to encourage childbirth
• 80% perceive immigration as the EU’s solution to depopulation
• 81% are aware of increased immigration and decreased births in the EU

Regarding Hungary specifically, 40% of respondents believe both the number of births and birth rate have increased domestically, while only 16% think the same for the EU as a whole.

The survey highlights a perceived disconnect between public concern and EU action on demographic issues.

Hungarians appear to favor policies supporting families and childbirth over immigration as a solution to population decline.

As Hungary begins its EU presidency, addressing Europe’s demographic challenges is one of seven main agenda items. The survey suggests strong public support for this focus, with 78% agreeing it should be a priority.

The nationally representative survey was conducted by phone among 1,000 adults between May 9-21, 2024. KINCS emphasizes that the results demonstrate Hungarians serious concern about demographic challenges facing both their country and Europe as a whole.

Via MTI; Featured Image: Pixabay