THE VOICES OF YOUTH ON EUROPEAN IDENTITY, MEMBERSHIP AND VALUES FROM AN ASPIRING COUNTRY

This research is trying to explore the perceptions and beliefs of young ethnic Macedonians regarding the EU, European and ethnic/national identity situated in an ambivalent societal context – an exposure to pro-European educational goals, together with the recently emerging reluctance towards joining the Union. 72 students with different study backgrounds at the age between 19 and 22 participated in the study. In 10 focus groups, formed on the basis of homogeneity of the field of study, they were discussing their views on the EU concept and their reflections on the congruities and incongruities between their national identity and the EU identity. Results show that respondents tend to idealize the concept of EU and are willing to accept European citizenship. On the other hand, some are skeptical and question the possibility of developing European identity and citizenship because they perceive a serious gap between the European values and the values that are dominant in the current public and political discourse.