Citizens in the EU are feeling more positive about the European Union than their national governments, according to the latest Eurobarometer survey. Trust in the EU stands at 44 percent, the highest score since 2014, while trust in national governments is a mere 34 percent.
Furthermore, 61 percent of Europeans feel optimistic about the future of the bloc, while, despite talks of a democratic deficit, 55 percent of respondents are satisfied with the way democracy operates in the Union.
Interestingly, enthusiasm for the single currency is at an all-time high of 76 percent. Researchers said that the surge in support for the EU stems in part from the UK’s Brexit referendum. Also, climate change is at the top of citizens’ concerns, ahead of immigration.
“Optimism is highest in Ireland (85%), Denmark (79%), Lithuania (76%) and Poland (74%),” Eurobarometer said. “At the other end of the scale, optimism is less pronounced in the United Kingdom (47% ) and in France (50%).”
The survey was held after the year’s European elections between June and 7 and July 1.