ABSTRACT
Perceptions of Europe and attitudes towards the European Union (EU) in Central Europe have been the subject of numerous studies, especially since Euroscepticism and contestation of EU policies have become more visible in the region. This chapter discusses the populist Euroscepticism in Visegrad 4 countries (Poland, Hungary, Czechia, and Slovakia) where Euroscepticism has become a mainstream phenomenon, contributing to de-Europeanization and de-democratization. Populist political actors are in the mainstream, often using a rhetoric that divides ‘ordinary people’ from a ‘corrupt elite.’ These populist parties have exploited political fatigue and uncertainty to consolidate power, dismantling democratic institutions and blaming the EU for unpopular decisions, as well as imposing its will and values over the national institutions. While populist Euroscepticism has gained prominence, EU membership still enjoys majority support in V4 societies due to perceived economic benefits. Domestic and regional factors shape perceptions of the EU in the region, particularly in light of the 2015 irregular migration crisis and the ongoing war in Ukraine, which have heightened nationalism and sovereignty discourses. Despite rising Euroscepticism, trust in EU institutions is relatively high, especially in Poland and Slovakia, suggesting a complex relationship with European identity amid low confidence in national governments.
