Step 1: Focus on the key issues…
Across the EU, even if there is no uncontrollable “priority issue”, the fight against poverty and social exclusion, public health, support for the economy and creation jobs, as well as defense and security have been identified as subjects that should be prioritized during electoral campaigns.
Typically polarizing issues such as gender equality, inclusion and diversity, as well as humanitarian and development aid, are ranked last, with 2 percent and 3 percent of respondents ranking as top desired priorities for campaigns. Likewise, more sensitive topics, such as consumer rights and the digitalization of the European economy and society, have failed to capture the public imagination.
Interestingly, the topic of migration and asylum, although in the top 10, does not seem as important as one might have hoped: only 8% cited it as a priority issue, and just under a quarter mentioned it as a priority issue. priority at all.
Step 2: But make sure these are key issues for your voters!
Naturally, the main themes of the campaigns are strongly influenced by national circumstances. It is perhaps no coincidence that countries on the EU’s “Eastern Front” are most concerned about the bloc’s defense and security. Likewise, the fact that migration and asylum are a key issue in Cyprus and Malta reflects the visibility of this issue in these countries.
Furthermore, the priority themes of campaigns differ between generations: for members of Generation X, baby boomers and people born before 1946, EU defense and security are the first priority. On the other hand, millennials prioritize supporting the economy and creating jobs, while Gen Z is focused on fighting climate change.
Step 3: Pray that people will show up
Good news! Eurobarometer data shows that 60 percent of Europeans are at least interested during the next elections. This may make the bar seem low, and that’s because it is – in the Eurobarometer ahead of the 2019 elections, just under 50% interest was reported.
Politices
