Polish public opinion: Explaining declining support for EU membership

Abstract:

This article examines the changing patterns of support for EU membership in Poland, the largest of the central and east European applicant states. It argues that we should not be surprised that Poles have become increasingly cynical about EU membership since accession negotiations began and examines the particular concerns that underpin Polish Euroscepticism. However, the overall level of support remains high, and it is apathy and low turnout that pose a greater threat than outright rejection in a future referendum on EU accession.