European Commission survey: 40% of Serbians believe country will never join EU

Less than a third of Serbian citizens hold a positive image of the European Union, with a significant portion believing EU membership is unattainable. A recent European Commission survey reveals that only 28 percent of Serbians view the EU positively, while 32 percent hold a negative image, and 38 percent remain neutral. Crucially, 40 percent of respondents believe Serbia will never become a member state.

Across the Western Balkans, support for the EU is generally higher than in Serbia. The survey, conducted between February and April, identified several obstacles to Serbia's accession, including unresolved territorial disputes, the EU's perceived lack of interest, and Serbia's perceived inability to meet required standards. Regarding the timeline for membership, 17 percent expect it to take 15 years, 24 percent foresee joining within 5 to 15 years, and nine percent believe it will happen in the next five years.

Despite the widespread skepticism about joining, a notable 41 percent of Serbian citizens believe that EU membership would ultimately bring more benefits than harm. The primary perceived benefits include opportunities for open borders and travel (41 percent), improved quality of life and living standards (32 percent), and financial support (31 percent). However, concerns persist, with 43 percent citing the potential exploitation of natural resources, 35 percent worrying about youth emigration, and 33 percent concerned about harm to cooperation with Russia.

In terms of trust, 40 percent of Serbian respondents trust the EU, while a higher percentage trust the Russian Federation (58 percent) and China (56 percent). When it comes to financial support, the EU and Russia are perceived similarly (26 percent), with China leading at 39 percent. Respondents identified economic development, trade, healthcare, and the fight against corruption as key areas where the EU should increase its support for Serbia. The European Commission noted that support for EU accession remains strong across enlargement partners, with citizens clearly valuing stronger peace, security, economic opportunities, and better prospects for the next generation.

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As the latest polls show, citizens across our enlargement partners are clear about what closer ties with the European Union mean in practice: stronger peace and security, wider economic opportunities, and better prospects for the next generation.