In the Netherlands, positive opinions about the European Union have declined in recent months. Unlike other EU countries, Dutch trust in the EU has diminished, and the image of the EU has become more negative.
The latest Eurobarometer shows that, in general, optimism about the future in EU countries is at its highest since 2009. This was announced on the eve of the annual State of the Union address by EU President Ursula von der Leyen. On Wednesday, Von der Leyen will not only reflect on the past year and look ahead to the coming year in Strasbourg but will also engage in a debate with Members of the European Parliament about political priorities.
When asked which issues the European Parliament should prioritize most, climate change ranks first, supported by 43%. This is also the top priority in the Netherlands. Other priorities named by the Dutch include measures against poverty and social exclusion (30%) and counter-terrorism (38%). Migration and asylum (29%) and public health (27%) are also among the Dutch top five.
The Dutch are primarily concerned about climate, environment, and migration, whereas most other European citizens worry about their economic situation. Compared to other member states (31%), the Dutch consider measures to support the economy and create new jobs less important for the European Parliament (15%). Most Dutch respondents to the survey believe that the Dutch economy will recover either next year or already in 2023.
Most Europeans are satisfied with the measures the EU and national governments have taken against the coronavirus pandemic and believe that the large economic recovery fund (NextGenerationEU) will be effective in mitigating the pandemic's economic consequences.
However, there is significant concern in several EU countries about how their national governments will actually use these additional EU subsidies. While on average 45% trust their national governments, 41% have doubts, indicating notable differences in trust levels across the EU.
Four out of five (81%) say that European subsidies should only be paid to EU countries that respect the rule of law and democratic values. EP President David Sassoli said about this: “The European Parliament has made it clear that EU recovery funds should not go to governments that do not respect core democratic values or uphold the rule of law. This survey confirms that an overwhelming majority of EU citizens agree with this. If you consistently undermine EU values, you should not expect EU funds.”