European identity project: top or flop?

Result

The EU's motto "United in diversity" is a symbol of the different cultures within a Union in which everyone can realise their own interests, hopes and dreams on an equal footing. But how united are the citizens of the European Union? How strongly do they believe in a true human closeness that transcends national borders? 29 per cent of German citizens believe that Europe will move closer together in the future, while 71 per cent expect it to drift apart. The different views are particularly evident within the various age groups. Among the younger generation, the positive expectation of closer co-operation is twice as high as among the older generation over the age of 55.

Reasons

A central argument of Eurosceptics is the fear of losing national identity. They want states to focus on national issues, similar to the "America First" principle in the USA, and favour national control over important matters such as economic or immigration policy. They also express a low level of trust in EU representatives.

The view of those in favour of Europe is different. The younger generation in particular sees the numerous benefits of a Europe that is growing together: from security and stability to advantages when travelling and working abroad, as well as an economic counterweight to countries such as China or the USA. For them, greater European integration also offers the opportunity to play a more active role in shaping the future of Europe and the world. This is because major issues, from climate change to digitalisation, social justice and education, can best be tackled together.

Forecast

Europe is at a crossroads and the future of the continent depends on the willingness and openness of its citizens. One future scenario could be a loose alliance of states that work together on certain issues but separate from each other on others and choose very different paths.

Alternatively, Europe could grow closer together, play a more active role in international politics and business, tackle challenges together and do so in full awareness of the different national burdens that this would entail. In any case, this will require better communication and communication of the benefits and consequences so that citizens can develop an understanding of a common Europe.