The effects of turnout at major climate protests on politically-interested bystanders: a survey field experiment

npj Climate Action 2026 Open access

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Authors: David Schieferdecker, Jannes Jacobsen, Endre Borbáth, Swen Hutter, Jule Specht
DOI: 10.1038/s44168-026-00349-3
Cited by: 2
References: 18

Abstract

Abstract Do people change climate-related opinions when they learn that thousands protested? Two survey field experiments tested how turnout at major climate demonstrations shaped politically interested individuals’ views in a German national election. Turnout significantly increased perceived movement efficacy, especially among more involved participants, and potentially increased internal political efficacy. Pro-environmental attitudes and vote intentions remained unchanged. Protest days appear to signal collective capacity rather than drive immediate attitude change.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Climate Change Communication and Perception Social Media and Politics Social and Intergroup Psychology

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Climate Action
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
5
Issue
1
Publication date
28 February 2026
Language
EN