Europeans Desire Stronger EU but Lack Confidence in Leadership

A new report by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) and the European Cultural Foundation (ECF) reveals a significant gap between the desire for a stronger, more sovereign Europe and the public's belief in the EU's ability to achieve it. The study, titled 'Nostalgia for the Future: Europe's Unfinished Song,' involved 5,834 interviews across France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and the United Kingdom, supplemented by qualitative research in 15 European countries. The research utilized AI moderated interviews for the first time to gauge public sentiment.

Findings show that 68 percent of respondents describe the current state of Europe as a general decline or a loss of normality. Only 12 percent view the current situation as a European awakening. While many share the vision of EU leaders like Ursula von der Leyen for a more unified Europe, 74 percent believe the continent is not handling major challenges, such as security and economic pressure, effectively. Additionally, 56 percent of respondents believe the future of Europe is at risk.

Public opinion on the future is divided. According to the analysis, 39 percent believe the subcontinent is declining, while 19 percent think Europe will become stronger and more unified due to current disruptions. Another 31 percent remain uncertain, and 12 percent are indifferent. The report identifies a triangle of doubt regarding whether Europe can act when necessary, live up to its proclaimed values, and keep its citizens safe.

The report highlights a void in positive leadership examples. While 44 percent of respondents could not name a single positive example of European action, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emerged as a notable exception. He was cited by 8 percent of respondents as a positive example, with particular popularity in Italy and France. Emmanuel Macron followed in second place, cited by 4 percent of respondents. The report notes that very few other politicians, including Ursula von der Leyen, were mentioned as positive examples.