A survey conducted by the research firm GoodAffairs for the digital edition of To BHMA captured Greek public opinion on various key issues, revealing general attitudes and political complexities. The analysis includes correlations between respondents’ views and their domestic party preferences.
The survey was conducted in early March with a sample of over 2,000 voters with responses collected through online questionnaires via a structured web panel and were weighted based on demographic characteristics and voting behavior in the June 2024 European Parliament elections.
Russia (21.3%) emerged as the most popular response among the respondents on the question of which foreign country best aligns with Greece’s interests, with the United States following with 19%, Israel with 17.2%, and France with 14.7%. Germany ranked low on the list at just 4.8%, likely reflecting lingering resentment over the austerity measures linked to the German leadership during the financial crisis.
Interestingly, while Russia topped the list in Greek public opinion, this support came from voters across the political-ideological spectrum. In contrast, Western countries were favored primarily by voters positioned closer to the political center.
A key finding of the survey suggests that Greeks increasingly perceive the United States as a superpower in decline, struggling to compete with China in the coming years. China, seen as advancing through cutting-edge technology offered at affordable prices, is viewed as the dominant global force of the future.
According to the poll, 52.3% of Greeks consider China to be the world’s rising superpower by 2050. India also registered a notable presence, with 5.2% of respondents identifying it as an emerging global power.
Public opinion in Greece remains split on the future of the European Union. According to the survey, 40.7% of respondents support further European integration, while 38.4% believe Greece could hold a pivotal role within the EU.
However, 42.8% favor dissolving the Union, with these respondents primarily positioned on both the political Left and Right—aligning with the previously noted appeal of Russia. Notably, SYRIZA voters appear almost evenly divided between supporting deeper integration and advocating for the EU’s dissolution.
According to the survey, the Economy and National Defense were tied as top priorities for Greeks, receiving 14.1% of responses.
Other crucial areas identified include Justice (13.2%), Agriculture (12.4%), and Education (11.8%). These findings highlight the public’s view that economic stability and security are fundamental to Greece’s future position on the global stage.
