Geopolitics and values – in tension or tandem? Uncovering the drivers behind Serbia’s public perceptions on EU membership

This project examines the key drivers shaping Serbian citizens’ perceptions of EU membership at a time when the balance between geopolitics and fundamental values has become increasingly contested. While other candidate countries tend to show steady pro-EU sentiment, Serbia stands out with fluctuating and often ambivalent public support. A growing concern is that the EU prioritises geopolitical stability over democracy and the rule of law, further eroding confidence in the accession process.

Since 2022, when the Ministry for European Integration discontinued its regular public opinion polls, there has been no systematic insight into how citizens perceive the EU. This project seeks to fill that gap.

By combining comprehensive desk research, a representative public opinion survey, and in-depth focus groups, the research goes beyond surface-level polling data to uncover the deeper motivations behind citizens’ attitudes. The findings will provide an evidence-based understanding of how the perceived tension between values and geopolitics shapes public opinion in Serbia, while offering practical recommendations for both Serbian and EU policymakers to strengthen public trust and ensure a more credible and effective accession process.

Contact person: Marko Todorović, researcher, marko.todorovic@cep.org.rs