These are the results of the latest Eurobarometer. Gerhard Sabathil, Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Germany, presented the results on 12 July in Berlin.
The findings of the Eurobarometer report
The European Union has overcome its crisis of confidence. Positive trends can be seen on almost all issues. The figures in Germany are above the European average in some cases. The image and the future of the EU, and the role of Germany within the EU, are deemed to be positive by the majority of Germans.
"The successful German EU Presidency has helped bring Europe closer to its citizens. Dialogue with our citizens is vitally important to us," Sabathil is convinced.
74 percent of Germans were aware of the German Presidency of the EU Council. 76 percent considered the German Presidency to be important. 78 percent of those interviewed (six weeks before the EU summit meeting in Brussels) would like to see a European constitution, while the vast majority of Germans (84 percent) were in favour of a common foreign and security policy.
There are still significant differences in opinion between East and West Germany. 45 percent of West Germans feel that their voice counts in Europe, a proposition rejected by 67 percent of East Germans. In the East, only 21 percent of those interviewed felt any involvement with European affairs, as compared to 32 percent in the West.
The Eurobarometer is conducted on behalf of the European Commission. The opinion poll is conducted in spring and autumn every year in all 27 member states, in the two accession candidates (Croatia and Turkey) and in the Turkish Cypriot community. On average 1,000 citizens are interviewed in each member state. One thousand five hundred Germans were asked for their opinions.
