Migration and healthcare emerged as the primary concerns for Dutch voters in the European Parliament elections, according to research conducted by Ipsos I&O on behalf of NOS. Despite the fact that national governments hold more sway over healthcare policies, it secured the second position after migration in influencing voters’ choices.
In a survey of 3,600 individuals conducted on election day across the Netherlands, respondents highlighted the significance of healthcare in their voting decisions, alongside migration. Following closely behind were considerations regarding the democratic nature of the EU, economic matters, and efforts against terrorism and organized crime. Conversely, issues such as agriculture and the conflict in Ukraine received comparatively less attention. While topics like drug policy, European culture, and food safety did play a role in some voters’ decisions, their impact was limited.
A substantial portion of Dutch voters expressed a desire for increased EU involvement in areas like tax evasion, counterterrorism, and digital security. Additionally, more than half of the respondents advocated for greater EU intervention in migration matters, signaling a call for enhanced action on this front.
The composition of the new Dutch coalition also influenced voter behavior, with a notable number indicating that their vote was influenced by support or opposition to the current Cabinet. Notably, voters for parties like PVV and BBB were particularly swayed by this factor, while GroenLinks-PvdA voters cast their ballots in opposition to the new government.
Contrary to previous elections, European faction leaders from Dutch parties had minimal influence on voters’ decisions. Instead, voters were primarily swayed by national party leaders, particularly those supporting PVV and BBB.
In assessing reasons for voting or abstaining, respondents cited motives such as the desire to have their voices heard, fulfilling their democratic duty, and acknowledging the importance of European politics. Conversely, factors such as disinterest in European politics, lack of trust, and uncertainty about candidate selection were cited as main reasons for abstaining from voting.
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