British News Agency

According to the Eurobarometer survey, the Member States most supportive of enlargement are Sweden (79%), Denmark (75%) and Lithuania (74%). By contrast, Austria (45%), the Czech Republic (43%) and France (43%) show the least support.

Young Europeans are particularly supportive of enlargement: 67% of those aged 15–24 and 63% of those aged 25–39. Overall, the survey shows that two-thirds of Europeans approve of this move.

Corina Stratulat, Deputy Director of the European Policy Centre, said: “Support largely comes from young and educated people. And that’s not surprising. Usually, it’s the same people who understand and back such efforts.”

37% of respondents believe enlargement will strengthen the EU’s global influence, and 37% also think it will reinforce the European market.

Finally, 30% of citizens believe enlargement will lead to greater solidarity among Member States.

However, Corina Stratulat stressed that political determination is needed to advance the process, adding: “It would be great if politicians used this public support to be more ambitious in admitting new members and preparing the EU to host more countries at the decision-making table.”