Croatian citizens to a high degree see benefits from membership in the European Union.

As many as 79 percent of respondents say that membership is good for the country, and half believe that things in Croatia are moving in the right direction, which is significantly more than at the beginning of the year, writes Poslovni dnevnik. On average across the European Union, there is less optimism about the situation in member states.

The main benefit of membership most often cited is new job opportunities. A notable share of citizens also highlights the contribution to economic growth, the improvement of living standards, and the fact that the Union strengthens peace and security.

When it comes to the priorities of the European Parliament, Croats most want it to deal with inflation, rising prices, and the cost of living. This is followed by support for the economy and job creation, as well as the fight against poverty. At the level of the European Union, inflation is also the top priority, but with less intensity than in Croatia.

The view toward the Union is moderately optimistic. The majority in Croatia believes that the European Union is moving in the right direction, while on average across the European Union a divided opinion prevails.

Expectations regarding living standards are stable. Most respondents expect that their standard of living will remain the same over the next few years, younger people are more inclined to believe in improvement, and the majority of citizens look optimistically at the future of the Union and want joint responses from member states to major crises.

General comparisons with the European Union average were verified in the official summary of the European Parliament Eurobarometer for spring 2025, a survey conducted in May in all 27 countries.

Benefits of accession

Joining the European Union brought access to the single market. Exporting was made easier for companies, many customs and regulatory barriers were removed, and consumers have greater choice and stronger protection of their rights. The movement of people is simpler. Citizens can freely work and study in other member states, have qualifications recognized more easily, and use student and professional exchanges such as the Erasmus program.

The introduction of the euro and entry into the Schengen area simplified everyday life. Payments are clearer and without exchange-rate risks, and travel is faster due to the abolition of border controls at land crossings within the Schengen area.

European funds significantly support public investment. Through various programs, roads, railways, schools, hospitals, water supply, digitalization, and entrepreneurship projects are co-financed, which raises quality of life and competitiveness.

Citizens benefit from common rules. This includes passenger rights in air and rail transport, more affordable roaming within the Union, stricter food safety and consumer protection standards, and the possibility of using the European Health Insurance Card during temporary stays abroad.