New opinion poll: Record high support for the EU among citizens

Brussels – More EU citizens than ever before see membership as positive, according to a new opinion poll for the EU Parliament.

74 percent of respondents in the latest so-called Eurobarometer believe that their countries have benefited from being in the EU. This is an increase of four percentage points since last year and the highest figure since the question was first asked in 1983.

The most positive respondents are from Malta with 92 percent, followed by Denmark, Ireland, and Portugal at 91 percent. Of the Swedish respondents, 79 percent believe that Sweden has benefited from joining the EU. The smallest number of positive respondents, 61 percent, is in Bulgaria.

The survey was conducted in all member countries in January and early February and also shows that 66 percent believe the EU should play a larger role in protecting citizens against global crises and security risks. Additionally, 76 percent think that the EU needs “more resources” – such as money or powers – to handle global challenges.

(March 25)