19 December 2025
Bilbao Campus
The University of Deusto presented the results of the Winter 2025 edition of the Social Deustobarometer (DBSoc) on 19 December. According to this semesterly survey, which collects citizens’ opinions and preferences on the issues that cause the greatest concern in Basque society, access to housing remains the main problem in the Basque Country (50%), with an upward trend over the past year. Citizens once again rate housing policies poorly (3.8)
Rising grocery prices (40%) have become the second most pressing concern among the Basque population. Concern over healthcare continues its downward trend (33%). Ratings (5.4) and confidence (6.1) in Osakidetza continue to recover. Additionally, over the past six months, concern about safety (23%) and immigration (20%) has decreased. The public approves of security policies (5) and confidence in the Ertzaintza has risen (5.5).
Low birth rate and AI
The Basque population links the problem of low birth rates mainly to challenges in work–life balance (40%), low wages for young people (40%), the cost of housing (33%), and changing priorities among younger generations (26%). There is broad consensus (70%) in favour of increasing public support to promote childbirth and child-rearing. In addition, the majority of the population (69%) believes that social pressure requires mothers to be more involved than fathers in raising children.
The most common emotions associated with the use of artificial intelligence in everyday life are concern (50%), distrust (48%), and interest (38%). 73% would not allow AI to manage their savings, drive their car (78%), or perform a surgical operation (75%). The majority (58%) of the Basque population is using AI-assisted tools. 42% believe it improves their productivity, 72% would like to learn more about AI, and 87% think strict limits and regulation are necessary.
Franco and the development of the Basque Country
In the political sphere, the majority of the Basque population (67%) believes that both the far right and self-described “anti-fascists” are responsible for the violence surrounding demonstrations and events organised by far-right groups or individuals in the Basque Country. 56% consider that the Ertzaintza is adequately protecting public order and ensuring freedom of expression in its handling of such incidents.
Finally, one in four young people of Generation Z believes that the dictator Franco was a ruler who brought social welfare to the population and that Francoism was a period that provided economic stability, fostering a strong commitment to the development of the Basque Country.
Deustobarometer in 11 key facts
Presentation of the Deustobarometer Report Winter 2025
The Summer 2025 edition of this survey is now available on the website: deusto.es/barometrosocial.
