Majority of EU Citizens Back Enlargement, New Eurobarometer Survey Finds

A newly published Special Eurobarometer survey by the European Commission shows that a majority of EU citizens support further enlargement.

Fifty-six percent of respondents are in favour, with support especially high among young people aged 15 to 39. A majority also believe their own country would benefit, pointing to stronger global influence, more opportunities for business and jobs, and greater solidarity and security.

Perception surveys in candidate countries confirm the picture: 91% in Albania, 74% in Georgia, and 68% in Ukraine support EU membership. Even in countries where enthusiasm is lower, such as Serbia, the question of accession remains central to public debate. Across the board, citizens highlight the importance of reforms on rule of law, corruption, and rights protection, while many also say they do not feel well informed about the process.

For the European Cultural Foundation, these findings underline the continuing importance of strengthening democracy, trust, and belonging across Europe. Enlargement remains not just a policy question but a cultural one: how Europeans see themselves as part of a shared project.

Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash,