European Youth Lose Faith in Democracy

Democracy is hailed by many as the best form of government that mankind has ever invented. Yet, surprising to some, democracy is not the longest lived or the most stable form of government. Advocates of democracy claim it empowers the people and makes possible greater freedoms, but what happens when democracy fails to bring about its promises?

A new study reflects the disillusionment many European youth feel about democracy. “Only half of young people in France and Spain believe democracy is the best form of government, with support even lower among their Polish counterparts” (The Guardian, July 4, 2025). Soberingly, 21 percent admitted that they would prefer authoritarian rule to democracy under some circumstances. Among those who identify as being disadvantaged and “politically to the right of centre,” only a third support democracy. As a political scientist at Berlin’s Free University observed, “Democracy is under pressure, from within and without.”

While the perspectives highlighted by this recent study are not surprising given the political uncertainty in democracies today, they are particularly sobering from a prophetic perspective. When people become disillusioned with their governments, they become more receptive to something different. And when a powerful leader comes on the scene with promises of a better way, such individuals will be more willing to follow. This is exactly what the Bible prophesies will take place at the end of the age—an extremely influential political leader will arise in Europe, allied with a religious leader who will perform signs and wonders (see Revelation 13). You can discover God’s take on democracy by reading “In Democracy We Trust?” and learn more about the coming end-time despot by watching “The Beast is Rising.”