National Identity in Europe Today: What the People Feel and Think

Abstract

<P> The issue of identity has recently gained cultural and political significance. The demise of communism in the Eastern Europe, the German reunion in Central Europe, and the Maastricht Treaty in Western Europe are said to have awakened nationalistic sentiments and movements, and processes of cultural, economic, and political internationalization and globalization are assumed to have caused not only increasing insecurity about national identity but also a loosening of the bond between collective and personal identity in Europe. The further unification of Europe is regarded by many Europeans as a threat to the survival of national cultures and identities. They fear that the disappearance of the internal borders between the European Union states may ultimately result in a loss of variety in national cultures and of distinct national identities. Further unification may cause problems of national identification and some observers have argued that it will therefore generate a reemphasis on regional and local cultures. </P><P>This article elaborates on the pivotal notions of nation, nationalism, and national identity, and related issues. From a social-psychological perspective, it describes how national identity relates to personal identity. Data from the European Values Study Eurobarometer surveys are used to demonstrate cross-national differences and similarities in national self-identification and changes over time. The findings reveal a widespread support for the European unification project, but large majorities in Europe do not (yet?) feel strongly attached to Europe. The European Union has yet to emerge as a contender for the loyalties of its citizens.</P>