What remains of euro-enthusiasm when EU subsidies end?

Public support for the European Union in Poland is waning, with euroscepticism on the rise and a prevalent narrative that reduces the EU to a source of funding. This perspective overlooks the greater economic benefits derived from the EU's single market.

For years, a naive form of "euro-enthusiasm" dominated in Poland, portraying the EU as a "cash machine" that finances roads, schools, and various projects. While these subsidies have undeniably contributed to the country's development, this view is shortsighted. Poland is projected to become a net contributor to the EU budget, a sign of economic success, not a problem.

The true value of EU membership lies not in direct transfers, which averaged 7.7 billion euros annually between 2004 and 2020, but in the single market. Economists estimate the benefits from the single market to be around 40.7 billion euros per year. However, pro-European politicians rarely highlight this crucial aspect.

This narrow focus on funds is problematic as euroscepticism grows, with a quarter of Poles reportedly supporting "Polexit" (Poland's exit from the EU). Even politicians previously associated with the ruling party have warned that current narratives could push Poland toward leaving the Union. The current government, despite its pro-EU stance, lacks a vision for deeper economic integration, evidenced by its opposition to the EU-Mercosur agreement and critical approach to certain EU policies.