Why People Lack Trust in the European Union

The European Union (EU) is often admired for its contributions to the welfare and stability of Europe. However, despite its success, the EU faces significant challenges in earning the trust of its citizens. Below, we delve into some of the reasons behind this lack of trust.

The EU: Over-Exceeded Expectations

One major reason for the mistrust in the EU is the belief that it should be the solution to all problems. Europeans often have inflated expectations of what the EU can achieve. Everything from animal welfare to international migration and public health crises is often blamed on the EU. The reality is that the EU is not the sole authority responsible for solving all these issues; member states and national government bodies also play a crucial role. The EU itself cannot be held accountable for every problem that arises within its member states, especially when leaders of these member states could potentially address the issues directly.

Perceived Lack of Democracy

A significant portion of the public perceives the EU as undemocratic, owing to how laws and regulations are enacted. The EU’s legislative process often involves complex procedures, including the involvement of the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union, and national legislatures. Critics argue that the ECJ (European Court of Justice) has the power to override national laws, which causes additional doubts. However, the reality is that no jurisdiction, national or supranational, places international law above national law. The perception of undemocracy stems from a lack of transparency and the intricate nature of the EU's decision-making processes.

False Accusations of a Secret Agenda

Another common belief is that the EU has a secret agenda to become a superpower. However, the EU is not a state or nation but a cooperative forum. The laws and regulations it enforces are strictly enacted by member states, who are sovereign and responsible for their own territories. The EU does not have its own military or customs services, as these functions remain with individual member states. Organizational structures such as France and Sweden handle military and intelligence operations, while the EU focuses on broader European cooperation and integration.

Communication Gaps and Public Perception

A major factor in the lack of trust is the EU's failure to effectively communicate its role and responsibilities. The EU is a complex organization that involves intricate legal and political structures. It is challenging for the EU to present a simple and universally understandable message to the public. This makes it vulnerable to misinterpretations and false accusations.aky adversaries such as the Russian elite, neo-Nazis, and opportunists of the Brexit movement frequently misrepresent the EU, leading to a distorted public perception. The EU lacks the capacity to ensure that every member state continually supports and defends it publicly, particularly when dealing with leaders like Viktor Orban, who may have vested interests.

Complexity and Lack of Comprehension

The single most important factor contributing to the EU's lack of trust is its complexity. The EU is a carefully negotiated, finely balanced, and legally complex organization that is difficult for the general public to grasp. Unlike some issues that can be communicated in simple slogans, such as "Save the Whales," the EU's purpose and functioning require detailed understanding. The EU is entrusted with addressing tasks that elected leaders would rather not handle directly, often leading to misattribution of success and failure.

In conclusion, the lack of trust in the European Union is a multifaceted issue rooted in misperceptions, over-expectations, and complex decision-making processes. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to improve transparency, clear communication, and public education. Only through these steps can the EU regain the trust of its citizens and achieve the unity it strives for.