Post-Protest Youth Poll: CHP Dominates, AKP Support Plummets

A newly released public opinion survey by Di-En Research titled “Youth Tendencies After the March 19 Protests” reveals a major political shift among young voters in Turkey. According to the findings, 41.6% of respondents aged 18–30 said they would vote for the Republican People’s Party (CHP) if parliamentary elections were held this Sunday—more than doubling support for the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), which came in second at 17.9%.

The survey was conducted between April 18 and 20, 2025, across 16 urban and rural regions, with a sample size of 2,426 participants. Respondents were asked:
“Which party would you vote for if parliamentary elections were held this Sunday?”
The results were adjusted by redistributing undecided voters.

CHP Surges, AKP Struggles to Maintain Youth Support

The data indicates a clear generational divide in Turkish politics. The CHP’s lead among young voters is significant, reflecting growing discontent with the current government, especially following the March 19 protests.

AKP’s support has fallen sharply, trailing far behind the main opposition. Following the AKP, the pro-Kurdish DEM Party secured 12.6%, followed by the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) at 9.4%, and the Victory Party (Zafer Partisi) with 7.1%. The Workers’ Party of Turkey (TİP) received 2.5% support.

Political Climate Signals Youth-Led Shift

This survey suggests that young voters are becoming a decisive force in shaping Turkey’s electoral landscape. The overwhelming preference for CHP among the youth underscores a demand for change and greater democratic freedoms—sentiments that have intensified in the wake of nationwide protests.

With a significant portion of the population under 30, this demographic shift could heavily influence future elections, signaling that opposition parties may be gaining momentum as the general election approaches.