How to build the European Identity? Attitudes towards the European Union across its countries

• Main Author: Cristina Matiuta
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University of Oradea, Research Centre on Identity and Migration Studies-RCIMI 2013-11-01
• Series: Journal of Identity and Migration Studies
• Subjects: National identity; European identity; citizenship
• Online Access: http://e-migration.ro/jims/Vol7_No2_2013/Articles/JIMS_Vol7_No2_2013_pp_2_10_MATIUTA.pdf

This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the process of European identity formation, using systematic comparisons of national attitudes towards the European Union. The topic of European identity has generated a lively academic debate in the recent decades. The article investigates the patterns of European identity construction and the similarities between national and European identities in terms of articulation and the relationship between the two layers of identity. Are these identities in competition? It is necessary, in order to develop the European identity, national identity to be at least eroded or they can coexist peacefully? The paper will analyze different types of arguments, suggests that European identity can be constructed, and function alongside national identity. The empirical evidence drawn from surveys shows that national identification and European identification are not perceived as contradictory and people feel part of both communities.