eurosceptic

Euroscepticism is a stance characterized by criticism of the European Union and/or skepticism about the aims, effectiveness, or legitimacy of European integration. Eurosceptics question whether EU-level decision-making benefits their country, and may advocate reform of the union or, in some cases, withdrawal.

The term covers a broad spectrum. Soft euroscepticism seeks to reform or limit certain EU powers while remaining a member, whereas hard euroscepticism calls for withdrawal from the EU or opposing further membership.

Origins: The term gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s amid debates over the Maastricht Treaty, the single currency, and the balance of national sovereignty with EU authority. It intensified after the eurozone crisis, concerns about fiscal policy, immigration, and democratic accountability. The United Kingdom's 2016 referendum to leave the EU (Brexit) is a high-profile example.

Euroscepticism is not confined to a single political ideology; it appears across the political spectrum, though it is often associated with nationalist, populist, or conservative movements, as well as left-wing movements skeptical of market-oriented EU policies.

Policy concerns typically include sovereignty, subsidiarity, budget contributions, regulation, and the democratic legitimacy of EU institutions.

See also: Euroscepticism, Eurosceptic party, Brexit.