Eurobarometer: Majority of EU citizens support enlargement

A Special Eurobarometer survey published by the European Commission reveals that 56% of EU citizens support future enlargement. The figure is particularly high among young people: about two-thirds of respondents aged 15 to 39 believe that candidate countries fulfilling the necessary conditions should join the EU.

A majority of citizens (56%) also state that enlargement would benefit their own country. The most frequently mentioned advantages include increased global influence of the EU, a larger market for businesses, more job opportunities, and strengthened solidarity and security.

At the same time, concerns are expressed about migration, corruption, crime, and financial costs. Respondents emphasize the importance of ensuring that candidate countries uphold the rule of law, fight corruption, and protect fundamental rights.

According to the survey, 67% of citizens feel insufficiently informed about enlargement. The Commission aims to step up public communication in this field and engage more directly with citizens.

Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said: “The results show that support for enlargement is especially high among young people. Citizens want a credible, values-based, reform-driven process. Together with the Member States, we will take people’s concerns into account and show how enlargement brings peace, prosperity, and a more united Europe.”

The research was conducted between February and March 2025, with over 26,300 participants across the 27 EU Member States.

In addition, the EU carried out perception surveys in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Ukraine. In Türkiye, a separate survey was conducted by the EU Delegation.

In Türkiye, 50.7% of citizens have a positive view of the EU, while 49.9% express support for EU membership.

For more information: https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/news/special-eurobarometer-and-perception-surveys-2025-09-02_en