A longitudinal perspective on European identity

Many theoretical contributions on European identity formation assume that early steps of European integration have led to a gradual increase in European identification. However, empirical analyses of over time changes in European identity are limited due to data constraints. We introduce a new measure for European identity, utilizing a Bayesian latent trait model to combine various survey sources from 34 countries over a period of 41 years. This approach addresses the issue of inconsistency and variation in measures of European identification, as well as potential biases such as differences in question phrasing and translation. It allows an entirely new longitudinal perspective on European Identity. The analyses made possible by this new perspective have the potential to be a significant step forward in our understanding of important macro mechanisms such as the relationship between European institutions and collective identities. It lays the groundwork for future research to examine the causality of the institution-identity link.