Examining Attitudes towards the EU: The Role of Living Conditions in Cities and their Impact on the Urban Educated Polish Youth

Edinburgh Europa Research Group Seminar 

Adrian Favero, University of Edinburgh 


Wednesday 24 January 2018, 11:00-12:00

Conference Room 2.15, Chrystal Macmillan Building


ABSTRACT

Work conducted in the field of European studies shows that territorial attachment and utilitarian approaches shape attitudes towards the EU. Using a different unit of analysis than the nation-state, this article examines these dynamics within urban centres in central Europe. Cities in Poland present interesting cases to explore the construction of attitudes towards the EU. After the fall of communism, urban authorities in Poland became influential actors in shaping local polices and the residents’ social context. Polish cities are increasingly integrated within the framework of the EU and play a central role in promoting economic and cultural attractiveness. Based on a survey of 324 MA students in five Polish cities, I assess the relationship between participants’ perceptions of cities’ performance and attitudes towards the EU. The results of diverse nonparametric tests confirm that satisfaction with economic conditions and local place attachment are positively correlated with support for EU integration.


The event is open to all. For Further information about the seminar details, please send an email to europaresearchgroup@ed.ac.uk

We look forward to seeing you!

Cleo Davies & Mihail Vatsov, co-convenors of the Europa Research Group


The Europa Research Group Seminar series is supported by the Edinburgh Europa Institute.