Brussels: Today, the European Commission published a new Special Eurobarometer survey indicating that young Europeans are among the strongest supporters of EU enlargement. The survey reveals that approximately two-thirds of respondents aged 15 to 39 believe that candidates should join the EU once they meet the necessary conditions. Furthermore, 56% of young respondents are in favor of further EU enlargement, viewing it as beneficial for their respective countries.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the survey respondents identified security and defense, a stronger economy, and increased global influence as the main advantages of expanding EU membership. However, 67% of citizens admitted they do not feel well-informed about enlargement. Surveys conducted in candidate countries and potential candidates generally show strong support for EU accession. In the Western Balkans, Albania registers the highest support at 91%, followed by North Macedonia at 69%. Serbia, on the other hand, shows the lowest support with 33%. In the Eastern Neighbourhood, Georgia and Ukraine display 74% and 68% support, respectively.
Additionally, the survey highlights varying perceptions of the EU across different countries. Albanians have the most positive image of the EU at 82%, while Serbia records the lowest at 38%. In Moldova, 55% of citizens hold a positive image of the EU, compared to 49% in Ukraine and 43% in Georgia. In Trkiye, a similar survey indicates 49.9% support for EU membership, with 50.7% of citizens viewing the EU positively.
The survey results aim to guide the European Commission’s efforts to engage the public in the EU, candidate countries, and potential candidates regarding EU enlargement policy. They will also inform the Commission’s communication strategies about progress made, as part of the annual enlargement reporting cycle. The Special Eurobarometer and perception surveys were conducted through face-to-face interviews between February and June 2025. More information, including detailed results and country-specific factsheets, can be accessed online.