1.1 Public confidence

Public confidence in the EU is shaped by people's personal economic situation. The countries of southern Europe are still reeling from the aftermath of the euro crisis, high unemployment, cuts in social benefits and the emigration of young, highly-qualified people. The countries of northern Europe, on the other hand, are still benefiting from the stable economy: unemployment is low and salaries have risen. In Germany, people are satisfied with their economic situation. People who assess the economic situation as "good" also have more confidence in the EU.

**Chart 1:** Question: How do you assess the situation of the (national) economy?

List of references for the used photo and chart:

Cover photo: freefly @ Fotolia.com
Chart 1: Eurobarometer Autumn 2018 (PDF)