A third of Romanians are strongly in favor of democracy, mirroring a continuing pattern across Europe
In a recent survey conducted by European Movement International and Savanta, the support for democracy across Europe shows a mixed picture, with some countries demonstrating a strong commitment while others express concerns.
The survey, which included 3,500 people in seven of the largest EU countries, including Romania, reveals that only 36% of Europeans are consistent supporters of democracy. In Spain, the figure drops to just one in four consistently voicing support for democracy, raising concerns for many, including Petros Fassoulas, secretary-general of the European Movement.
However, the survey results indicate a strong support for democracy among Romanians. While the specific support level is not detailed in the available data, regional trends suggest that Romania is likely positioned as a committed EU democracy. Romania is among the countries with the highest awareness of EU political figures and institutions, indicating a high level of engagement with the European Union.
Moreover, Romanians are among the most aware of EU political figures and institutions, indicating a high level of engagement with the European Union. Slightly less than 60% of Romanians believe that EU membership has brought net benefits to them personally and the country as a whole.
Interestingly, while 68% of Romanians prefer their country to focus on domestic priorities and avoid international involvement, almost half of Romanians support the integration of EU militaries to respond to growing threats from countries like Russia. This suggests a complex and nuanced view of their country's involvement in international affairs, with a desire for both global engagement and a focus on domestic priorities.
The survey results also highlight a strong support for EU membership among Romanians, second only to Poland in the surveyed countries. A significant 71% of Romanians prioritize advancing global peace and prosperity, even at the cost of domestic sacrifices.
In terms of broader European democracy and rule of law, the 2025 Rule of Law Report highlights steady progress in many EU Member States, with ongoing challenges mainly in judicial independence, corruption, and media freedom. This suggests that while formal democratic institutions persist, pressures and reforms continue to shape the democratic environment.
Regarding Eastern Europe and EU neighbors, countries like Moldova and Ukraine are noted for democratic transformation efforts despite challenges. Romania, as an EU member, is not part of the Eastern Partnership Index but generally aligns with the EU’s democratic framework, where according to recent analyses, efforts to strengthen democracy continue amidst great pressure.
In conclusion, while the survey results suggest a lower level of consistent support for democracy in Europe, Romania stands out as a committed EU democracy facing typical reform challenges but without specific survey data explicitly comparing its support level to other European countries. The survey serves as a reminder of the need for continued efforts to promote and protect democratic values across Europe.
- Despite a lower overall level of consistent support for democracy in Europe, Romania, known for its high engagement with the European Union, exhibits a strong commitment to democratic values.
- Amidst ongoing challenges in judicial independence, corruption, and media freedom across many EU Member States, Romania, as an EU member, aligns with the EU’s democratic framework and continues its efforts to strengthen democracy.
