Austria: EU membership support rises amid enlargement skepticism

A recent autumn survey by the Austrian Society for European Policy (ÖGfE) indicates rising support for Austria’s membership in the European Union. According to the findings, 68 percent of respondents favor remaining in the EU, a 9 percentage point increase since April 2025. Conversely, 25 percent of those surveyed support leaving the union, representing a 5 percentage point decrease in opposition.

Despite the growing popularity of EU membership, there remains significant skepticism regarding EU enlargement. Approximately 60 percent of Austrians oppose the addition of new member states within the next five years, while only 28 percent are in favor. Paul Schmidt, Secretary General of the ÖGfE, noted that the inclusion of new members is not viewed as a priority by the Austrian population.

Schmidt attributed the increased appreciation for the EU to its perceived stability, legal certainty, and predictability in a global context, noting that Russian destabilization attempts have increased public concern. He also highlighted the EU’s growing importance as a reliable global partner through intensified trade partnerships and closer ties with nations like Canada and the United Kingdom.