Cohesion policy and citizens' identification with the European union

Abstract

European identity is recognised as an important element of the European Union's (EU) sustainability. It can be influenced by economic benefits from EU membership and a combination of historical, cultural, social, economic, and political factors. The paper focuses on identifying the relationship between citizens' identification with the EU and Cohesion policy expenditures as perhaps one of the most visible benefits of EU membership at the regional level. Results of econometric analysis reveal that citizens' identification with the EU is higher in regions with higher EU funds expenditures and better socio-economic situation. European identity seems to be positively influenced by perceived EU benefits, understanding how the EU works, and persuasion that country interests are considered in the EU. Moreover, we confirm the positive relationship between awareness of Cohesion policy and identification with the EU.