Resistance against European Integration: A Qualitative Study on the Influence of Social and Political Actors on the Opinion of Students

The Treaty of Maastricht halted the relatively straightforward process towards an ever closer European Union. Opinions about integration became more dispersed and resistance to European integration can now be found in all layers of society. This increased resistance, or its opposite support, can influence the opinion of citizens about European integration. One group of citizens is especially vulnerable, youngsters between 18 and 25, who are still in a period of extraordinary psychological and social change. Goal of this research project is to analyse if resistance or support of these groups of actors influences the opinion of youngsters, in this regard students, about European integration. To analyse the relation semi-structured interviews are employed with students from EU member states studying in the Netherlands. Along resistance and support of actors three additional factors were considered, political and economic considerations, identity and the role of the media. Of these...Show moreThe Treaty of Maastricht halted the relatively straightforward process towards an ever closer European Union. Opinions about integration became more dispersed and resistance to European integration can now be found in all layers of society. This increased resistance, or its opposite support, can influence the opinion of citizens about European integration. One group of citizens is especially vulnerable, youngsters between 18 and 25, who are still in a period of extraordinary psychological and social change. Goal of this research project is to analyse if resistance or support of these groups of actors influences the opinion of youngsters, in this regard students, about European integration. To analyse the relation semi-structured interviews are employed with students from EU member states studying in the Netherlands. Along resistance and support of actors three additional factors were considered, political and economic considerations, identity and the role of the media. Of these factors a conceptualization of several elements of the identity of a respondent, their personal background, was found to be most important. Resistance and support and economic considerations were of secondary importance. The results point to a smaller influence of external factors than expected. As long as students are satisfied with their socio-economic position they are not influenced heavily by external factors. Instead they formulate their opinion about European integration based on their personal background. Based on the results of my research project European policymakers should focus on economic and social benefits if they want to ensure the support of the young generation. Further research should explore this conclusion in more depth by conducting interviews with a more diverse, lower educated, group of students.Show less

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Resistance against European Integration: A Qualitative Study on the Influence of Social and Political Actors on the Opinion of Students