A new survey reveals economic hardships for 3 in 10 Europeans

A new Ipsos survey reveals economic hardships for 3 in 10 Europeans. The study covered 10,000 people from ten countries.

In Greece, 49% reported economic struggles. In France, the number was 22%, while in Germany, it was 18%. Adults from ten different countries took part in the study.

Many limit travel due to tight budgets. Almost half skipped heating in cold weather. These findings echo last year’s report.

A third of Europeans often cut down on food, says the report. Specifically, 38% skip meals and 39% avoid buying meat. Additionally, 10% rely on charities for food.

The situation has slightly improved in inflation-hit countries like Greece. However, the charity Secours Populaire calls the overall situation concerning.

Having a job doesn’t guarantee financial ease, the report adds. Around 36% of working people can’t cover all their expenses.

Ipsos conducted the survey online in June. The sample included a thousand individuals from each nation studied.

The concept of financial stress in Europe isn’t new. For years, varying rates of inflation and unemployment have affected many countries.

The 2008 financial crisis hit Europe hard, leading to austerity measures in countries like Greece.

This led to a rise in poverty and unemployment. Economic pressures from global trade wars have also played a role in recent years.

Background

Brexit in the UK added uncertainty to the European economy as well. As a result, the pound weakened, affecting trade and employment.

Countries like Romania and Moldova have long faced high poverty rates in Eastern Europe.

Economic disparities between nations in the European Union are evident. Richer countries like Germany have more stable economies.

Poorer nations like Greece and Portugal often face economic hardships.

Social programs vary among European countries. Nations like Denmark and Sweden have robust welfare systems. In contrast, countries like Italy and Spain have faced criticism for their social safety nets.