Negative moods in NL worsened last year, but 85% are satisfied with their lives

An upside down flag is a sign of protest. Photo: DutchNews.nl

Negative moods in the Netherlands have worsened significantly over the last year, with new surveys by the government’s social and cultural research agency showing that the percentage of people who believe society is headed in the wrong direction has risen from 46% in the spring to 62% in the fall. increased to %.Hinktank SCP.

The percentage of people who expect the economy to worsen has also risen from 63% to 73%, SCP said, citing figures from its ongoing survey of public opinion polls.

At the same time, however, 85% say they are satisfied with their lives, a number that has remained unchanged for several years.

According to SCP, the change in attitudes towards politics seems to stem from the perceived accumulation of social problems.New problems are being added as old problems are not solved.

People are still worried about politics, rising prices, income inequality, immigration, lack of affordable housing and climate action. But at the end of the summer of 2022, new concerns were added, with immigration and rising prices becoming the top concerns. It’s the nitrogen crisis.

SCP research also shows that dissatisfaction with politicians is still growing. In the fall of 2022, only 43% said they trusted Congress, compared to 52% in the spring. Only 41% said they trust their government, down from 50% earlier this year.

People say politicians lack determination and vision, especially when it comes to solving the problems facing the Netherlands. They also see the chasm between “The Hague” and the general public, and are unhappy that politicians stay in office no matter how many mistakes they make.