A new Eurobarometer survey released on May 14, 2026, reveals that Serbian citizens are now the most skeptical in the Balkans regarding European Union membership. According to the data, only 35% of Serbians believe that joining the EU would be a good thing—the lowest percentage in the region.
The survey paints a picture of a “fragmented society” where expectations for integration have been consistently disappointed over the last two decades.
Trust in the EU: Regional Comparison
Serbia trails significantly behind its neighbors in both trust and desire for membership.
| Country | Trust in the EU | View EU Membership as “Good” |
| Albania | 80% | 84% |
| Kosovo | 75% | (High support) |
| Montenegro | 65% | 66% |
| North Macedonia | 60% | 62% |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | 56% | 48% |
| Serbia | 36% | 35% |
Why is Serbian Skepticism Rising?
Analysts interviewed by Blic point to several key factors driving this downward trend:
- Broken Promises: Slobodan Zečević of the Institute for European Studies notes that expectations have been “betrayed” since the political changes in 2000. Constant delays and shifting deadlines have led to a belief that membership is no longer a realistic possibility.
- Double Standards: Strahinja Subotić (CEP) argues that Serbians increasingly view the EU as an actor with “double standards,” particularly regarding sovereignty and the rule of law.
- Economic Pessimism: Unlike previous years, there is no longer a widespread belief that EU membership will automatically trigger economic prosperity.
- The Kosovo Issue: The failure to implement the Brussels Agreement, specifically the formation of the Association of Serb Municipalities (ZSO) despite EU mediation, remains a major hurdle for public trust.
A Fragmented Public Opinion
The data shows that Serbian public opinion is split almost perfectly into thirds:
- 35% see membership as good.
- 30% see membership as bad.
- 35% have no opinion (neutral).
Experts warn that if these trends continue, the “Euro-skepticism” will only deepen. Interestingly, even in Montenegro, where support remains high at 66%, there is growing concern that entering the EU before Serbia will create a “hard border,” complicating trade and family travel between the two closely linked nations.
