Poll: More than half of Ukrainians don’t feel like Europeans

53 percent of Ukrainians still do not feel like Europeans Or feel like them to some extent. Meanwhile, 40 percent of the Ukrainian population defines themselves as “European” to some extent, according to the newspaper “Ukrinform”.

These are the results. Nationally representative survey Conducted by the Democratic Initiatives Foundation Ilko Kucherev in cooperation with the Social Laboratory of the Razumkov Center.

The results of the study have proven its validity. Totally unexpected for its organizers.As we have explained, Ukrainians have in recent years demonstrated their pro-European sentiments, which will only increase in the context of a large-scale war.

Deputy Director of the New Europe Center, Serhiy Solodkizh, commented on the survey results.

– There is no doubt that Russian aggression must lead to strengthening the identity of Ukrainians as Europeans and part of Western civilization. But, as we can see, he said, the general mood is a bit more complicated.

– I don’t think it’s about a negative attitude towards the European view of the world, but Rather, it is about self-criticism, which has always been an inherent trait of Ukrainians. “Europeanism,” Solodsky explained, “is said to be a kind of higher level of civilization that… Ukrainians still have to make it happen.We don’t think so. It is a sign of the negative perception of Europe. – Added.

The Ukrinform website notes that the positive attitude of Ukrainians towards Europe was confirmed by the results of the survey. It shows that the majority of the population of Ukraine The European Union links the positive aspectsWhich has become less available due to the war.

He noted, among other things: Freedom to travel, study and work anywhere in the EU (49%), quality of life (44%), economic prosperity (39%), social security (35%), democracy (34%), peace (33%).

– The survey does not address expectations regarding his personal life. This prevents most Ukrainians from identifying with Europe, especially in times of war, said Daria Gaidai, deputy head of the Ukrainian bureau. Deputy Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration.

– A European is a person who has a certain level of income. And It is difficult for low-income Ukrainians to see themselves this way. – I explained.

As Gaidai added, it is important to raise the cultural awareness of EU membership among Ukrainians. – It is not only about salaries or social security. Europe is based on values – She pointed out.

The study organizers noted that the sense of European belonging among Ukrainians Increases with educational level and financial statusPeople living in Western Ukraine who speak Ukrainian at home are also more sensitive. And, I would add, young people have a greater sense of being European.

Stay informed And become one of over 200,000 followers of our fan page – like Interia Events on Facebook And comment on our articles there!