Germans reject exit from EU and Euro in crucial vote

In Germany, a recent YouGov survey conducted from November 29 to December 3, 2024, revealed strong public sentiment regarding the country's membership in the European Union and the use of the euro. The survey found that a significant 65 percent of respondents expressed a desire to remain part of the EU and retain the common currency, indicating a clear preference for the current status quo over potential changes suggested by certain political factions. Notably, the right-wing populist party Alternative for Germany (AfD) has put forth a draft election program advocating for an exit from both the EU and the euro. Nevertheless, support for such exits appears to be minimal, with only 20 percent of survey participants indicating they would favor leaving the EU and adopting a separate currency. The remaining respondents were either uncertain, did not respond, or chose not to participate in the voting scenario presented by the survey. This survey was conducted amid a politically charged atmosphere in Germany, as the country is preparing for early elections scheduled for February 23, 2025, following the breakdown of the previous government coalition. The upcoming elections may further illuminate public opinion on these pressing issues. However, it is important to note that referendums on these matters are largely theoretical under German Basic Law; such referendums are infrequently used and would require significant legislative changes, including a two-thirds majority from both the Bundestag and the Bundesrat to amend the Basic Law for a legal exit from the EU. Despite these hurdles, the data from the survey reflect a clear disinterest among the German populace in pursuing a path towards EU disengagement or currency separation, suggesting that the AfD's proposals may not resonate widely with voters.