Young People and Their Evolving Ideals: A Shift Away from Democracy and Feminism
The recent study ‘Young Spaniards 2026’ reveals troubling trends among youth in Spain, where more than two-thirds express dissatisfaction with democracy and nearly half support authoritarian measures. This shift in ideology raises critical questions about the future of political engagement and social values among young people.
Declining Support for Democracy
According to the SM Foundation’s findings, a growing sentiment of distrust in political systems is palpable among youth. In 2019, over 80% of young Spaniards supported democracy; today, this figure has plummeted to approximately 60%. The study notes that nearly 70% of respondents report little to no satisfaction with democratic governance. This alarming decline fosters a fertile ground for authoritarian sympathies, with many advocating for stricter governance—even at the cost of individual freedoms—if it promises social stability.
Prioritizing Personal Well-being Over Political Ideals
The research indicates a dramatic shift in priorities, with health, family, and financial stability taking precedence over social or political ideals. Seventy-five percent of young people place paramount importance on health, while 59.7% prioritize earning money. This suggests a substantial move away from previously noble ideals, such as environmental commitment and social equality.
Juan González-Anleo, a researcher involved with the study, emphasizes how the obsession with financial gain is contributing to the decline of social ideals. As individualism rises, traditional values linked to community well-being and collective responsibility appear to be fading fast.
Changing Views on Feminism and Gender Roles
Perhaps one of the most striking findings is the shift in attitudes toward feminism and gender equality. About 66% of young respondents believe that some women seek privileges under the guise of equality, and 60% think that women exploit their attractiveness to influence men. Additionally, 54% claim that women sometimes exaggerate issues of machismo in innocuous discussions.
This decline in feminist support extends to problematic views on relationships, with four in ten young people justifying controlling behaviors from male partners, showing a preference for traditional gender roles where men are seen as primary breadwinners.
The Role of Family and Friendship
In light of these changes, family relationships remain the cornerstone of emotional and economic support for young people. The difficulties associated with independence and economic challenges have led to a strong reliance on family and close friendships. As noted by Ariadna Pérez, the report’s coordinator, youth today heavily depend on their immediate circle to navigate their life paths.
Spirituality and Material Well-being
Interestingly, the study also points to an increase in the importance of spirituality among youth. Approximately 38.4% of participants stated that they value religion significantly, with many blending beliefs from various traditions. In terms of happiness, material success appears to overshadow altruistic values—having a good job (20.24%), owning a home (14.3%), and accumulating wealth (14.13%) rank far higher than having fun (10.45%) or helping others (3.24%) as indicators of happiness.
Conclusion
The findings from the ‘Young Spaniards 2026’ study paint a complex picture of contemporary youth, suggesting a pronounced pivot away from democratic values and collective societal ideals toward individualistic pursuits, particularly financial stability. As young people navigate these transformations, understanding their shifting priorities and values will be essential for fostering a more engaged and equitable society in the future.