By Benson Daniel
A large majority of Europeans still want a stronger, more united and independent Europe, but growing doubts about the continent’s ability to achieve that ambition are deepening what researchers describe as a crisis of confidence.
A new study based on interviews with 5,800 people across France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and the United Kingdom found that 73 per cent of respondents supported a stronger European vision centred on political integration, peace and security or economic prosperity.
Only 13 per cent expressed a preference for less European integration or the dissolution of the European Union.
Despite that strong attachment to the European project, however, public confidence in its ability to respond effectively to major challenges has weakened considerably.
About 74 per cent of those surveyed said Europe was not handling its key challenges well, while 56 per cent believed the continent’s future was in danger.
The study identified war, economic pressures and the need for greater independence on the international stage among the issues causing the greatest concern.
The findings suggest that the problem is not necessarily growing opposition to European cooperation, but frustration over the gap between what citizens want Europe to become and what they believe its institutions can realistically deliver.
Around 68 per cent of respondents described the current period in terms of deterioration or a loss of normality, compared with just 12 per cent who viewed the moment as one of European renewal and opportunity.
The research divided respondents into four broad groups. About 19 per cent were classified as strongly positive towards Europe and viewed the current crises as an opportunity to build a more integrated union.
The largest group, accounting for 39 per cent, consisted of people who believed Europe’s best days were behind it. Another 12 per cent were described as disconnected from the European project, while 31 per cent remained uncertain.
The uncertain group could prove particularly important for the future of the European Union because its members generally retain support for European cooperation but have serious reservations about the bloc’s effectiveness.
Concerns about slow decision making, bureaucracy and Europe’s perceived weakness when dealing with powerful international actors featured prominently in the findings.
About 32 per cent of respondents pointed to Europe’s slowness as a major problem, while 30 per cent raised concerns about the bloc’s inability to stand firmly against more powerful global players.
The findings come at a difficult time for Europe, which is facing pressure over defence, energy security, economic competitiveness, migration, climate change and the war in Ukraine.
Political leaders are therefore facing the challenge of convincing sceptical citizens that closer European cooperation can produce tangible improvements in their daily lives.
The study suggests that broad promises about Europe’s future may no longer be enough to restore confidence. Citizens increasingly want evidence that European institutions can act decisively and solve practical problems.
The future of the European project could consequently depend less on persuading committed supporters and more on winning over those who still believe in the idea of a united Europe but are no longer convinced that its institutions have the capacity to deliver it.
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