Public support for European Union enlargement remains strong across the bloc and among candidate countries, with Albania showing the highest enthusiasm and Serbia the lowest, a new Eurobarometer survey showed on Monday.
The poll found that 56% of EU citizens back further enlargement, with support particularly high among younger people.
In the Western Balkans, 91% of Albanians favour EU membership, compared with just 33% in Serbia. In the Eastern Neighbourhood, support is also high, with 74% of Georgians and 68% of Ukrainians in favour of joining.
The survey highlighted low awareness of EU policies in many candidate states. Only 48% of Moldovans and 39% of Montenegrins said they felt well or very well informed, dropping to 23% in Ukraine and 20% in Serbia.
Within the EU, Ukraine emerged as the most favoured candidate, with 52% of respondents supporting its eventual accession once conditions are met, followed by Montenegro at 51%. Bosnia and Herzegovina secured 48% support, Serbia 47%, Albania 45% and Kosovo 43%.
EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos said the results showed citizens wanted a “credible, value-based process driven by real reforms”.
“Together with the Member States, we will engage directly with citizens, address their concerns, and show how enlargement delivers peace, prosperity, and a more united Europe,” she said.