BRUSSELS – A recent Balkan Barometer 2025 report reveals that 64 percent of Western Balkans citizens support EU membership, marking the highest level since 2015 and a 10 percent rise from the previous year. The report, conducted by the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), indicates that 66 percent of the population views rising prices and inflation as their top concern, while 64 percent believe that regional cooperation can enhance the economic situation.
The findings also show that 68 percent of young individuals are contemplating living or working abroad, and 71 percent feel that EU membership would benefit their economy, the highest confidence level among youth in five years. The RCC noted that businesses have reported advantages from increased regional integration, such as lower operating costs due to a roaming-free regime and anticipated travel benefits within the region using ID cards. RCC Secretary General Amer Kapetanović, during the Barometer presentation in Brussels, emphasized that citizens of the Western Balkans have conveyed a strong message this year: genuine progress fosters trust.
“Support for EU integration is at an all-time high, and faith in regional cooperation remains robust. People recognize the benefits of practical results, including fewer barriers, lower costs, enhanced connectivity, and new opportunities for businesses and youth. It is our duty to maintain this momentum and transform it into concrete reforms and real benefits for everyone in the region,” stated Kapetanović.
He highlighted that EU and Western Balkan leaders will convene in Brussels next week, suggesting that the Barometer’s findings could guide the summit. “This summit provides the Western Balkans a chance to demonstrate that the path towards Europe is credible rather than theoretical. As shown by the Balkan Barometer, credibility shifts perceptions. When we consider the broader context—citizens, businesses, institutions, and youth—a clear truth becomes apparent: people in the Western Balkans seek results, not miracles. They reward progress with trust and believe in Europe when Europe believes in them,” concluded Kapetanović. The Balkan Barometer serves as the most thorough regional assessment of public and business opinions within the Western Balkans. (11 December)
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