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This book explores how public opinion toward the European Union has evolved during the age of polycrises. It shows that not all crises are perceived in the same way, nor do they generate uniform political responses. By distinguishing between process-oriented threats, event-driven crises, and recurrent threat-to-crisis issues, the book offers an original framework to analyse the impact of global challenges. Situating Italy within a comparative framework alongside France, Germany, Poland, Spain, and Sweden, the volume reveals how specific types of crises foster greater support, while others exacerbate disaffection or ambivalence. Despite signs of rising Euroscepticism in many European countries in recent years, the book argues that recent global threats and crises have helped to redefine the role of the EU in its relationship with national governments, leading to a shift in public opinion that mitigates criticism against it. The book will appeal to all those interested in European politics, political communication, and European studies.
List of contents
1. Introduction.- 2. Public Opinion and the Legitimacy of the EU in Times of Crisis.- 3. Typologies of Threats and Crises in the Context of EU Integration.- 4. The Differentiated Role of Crises and Threats in Shaping Public Support for the EU in comparative perspective.- 5. How threats and crises shaped Italian attitudes towards the European Union.- 6. Understanding Public Opinion attitudes toward the European Union amid Threats and Crises.
About the author
Giuliano Bobba is Associate Professor in the Department of Cultures, Politics and Society and a Fellow at Collegio Carlo Alberto, University of Turin, Italy.
Antonella Seddone is Associate Professor in the Department of Cultures, Politics and Society, University of Turin, Italy.
