Abstract
This study investigates the determinants of optimism about the future of the European Union (EU) among young adults by integrating perceptions of EU strengths and challenges with socio-demographic characteristics and cross-national variation. Drawing on data from the European Commission Flash Eurobarometer 556 conducted across EU member states, the analysis examines how European youth’s evaluations of the EU’s strengths and challenges shape optimism about the future of the EU. The findings indicate that optimism is primarily driven by positive assessments of tangible EU contributions, particularly regional investment, solidarity, climate action and democratic governance. In contrast, economic insecurity – especially concerns related to the cost of living – and migration-related challenges exert the strongest negative effects on optimism. Freedom of movement and developments in digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, do not exhibit statistically significant effects. Attitudinal factors outweigh socio-demographic characteristics, although higher educational attainment and urban residence are positively associated with optimism. Substantial cross-national differences persist even after controlling for individual-level covariates, highlighting the continued importance of the national context in shaping public attitudes toward the EU.