ECFR survey: Europeans seek unity but doubt it can be achieved
Survey participants in France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and the United Kingdom mostly want to see Europe strong, united and independent, but doubt that it is capable of achieving this goal. This is indicated by a study by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), reported by The Guardian World.
A sense of decline
The study is based on 5,800 interviews in six countries and an analysis of how Europe is discussed in politics and the media in 15 states. According to its findings, 68% of respondents describe the current period as a general deterioration of the situation or a loss of the familiar order. Only 12% consider it a time of European awakening and renewal.
Among the key challenges, respondents named war — 43%, economic pressure — 33%, and the need for greater international autonomy — 29%. At the same time, 74% believe that Europe is not coping with these problems, while 56% are convinced that its future is under threat.
Vision and doubts
According to the study, 73% of respondents have a strong vision of Europe’s future. Among the priorities they named are unity and political integration, mentioned by 35% of participants, peace and security — 28%, as well as prosperity — 19%. Only 13% spoke in favor of “less Europe” or the dissolution of the EU.
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The study’s author, ECFR senior policy fellow Pawel Zerka, noted that the problem is not a loss of the desire for a stronger Europe, but people’s doubts about whether such a scenario can be achieved. According to him, citizens can imagine what Europe should be like, but do not see a convincing path from its current state to the desired one.
The uncertain group
Researchers identified four groups of voters. The “positive” group included 19% of respondents, who see the current crises as a stimulus for a stronger and more integrated union. The “negative” group accounts for 39% and is convinced that Europe’s best days are over. Another 12% were described as “detached,” while 31% were “uncertain”: they share pro-European values but doubt the continent’s ability to act decisively, protect citizens and uphold its own values.
Europe’s slowness was mentioned by 32% of study participants, while 30% cited its inability to stand up to powerful players. Zerka considers the “uncertain” group key to Europe’s future trajectory. In his view, politicians must demonstrate that joint European action can solve practical problems in the areas of energy security, defense, climate and the cost of living.
