Do you feel European? An analysis of European identity and its demographic influencing factors

Abstract

This study investigates the formation of European identity across European regions between 2019 and 2024. Drawing on Self-Categorization and Social Identity Theory, European identity (EI) is conceptualized as a collective identity rooted in shared democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law, rather than common language or ethnicity. A multilingual survey was conducted using snowball sampling across EU members, microstates, and autonomous territories. The analysis reveals significant regional disparities in EI, with stronger affiliations in regions more integrated into EU structures and weaker identification in areas with greater autonomy or historical detachment. Demographic variables such as age, gender, income, and education show weak correlations with EI. However, professional roles consistently emerge as a stronger predictor, particularly in public service and internationally engaged occupations. Notably, education often correlates negatively suggesting critical engagement with supranational governance. Temporal and regional variations underscore the fluid and context-dependent nature of identity formation. It highlights the importance of institutional, cultural, and occupational factors in shaping EI and suggest that efforts to foster cohesion should focus on professional and educational environments. This research contributes to the discourse on European integration and identity politics, offering empirical insights into how identities evolve in response to shifting societal landscapes.