Story perspectives

EU Enlargement Supported by 56% Amid Generational Divide

9/3/2025

Summary

Story summary

A Eurobarometer poll reveals 56% of EU citizens support enlargement, while 44% oppose or are skeptical.
Support levels vary: Sweden (79%) and Denmark (75%) show high approval, whereas Italy (51%) and France (49%) are divided.
Citizens aged 15-24 demonstrate stronger support at 66%, highlighting a generational divide.
Commissioner Martha Kos emphasizes addressing public concerns regarding new member states.
The war in Ukraine affects candidate countries' alignment with the EU or Russia.

History

Historical Context

The 2004 EU enlargement, which welcomed ten countries and increased membership to 25, was rooted in earlier efforts for integration, notably the 1991 formation of the Visegrád Group. While 75% of EU citizens supported this expansion, current sentiments have shifted, with only 56% in favor, reflecting geopolitical tensions like the Ukraine war and a generational divide in attitudes toward EU membership.

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Story summary

A Eurobarometer poll reveals 56% of EU citizens support enlargement, while 44% oppose or are skeptical.
Support levels vary: Sweden (79%) and Denmark (75%) show high approval, whereas Italy (51%) and France (49%) are divided.
Citizens aged 15-24 demonstrate stronger support at 66%, highlighting a generational divide.
Commissioner Martha Kos emphasizes addressing public concerns regarding new member states.
The war in Ukraine affects candidate countries' alignment with the EU or Russia.

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