Slovenia shows overwhelming support for euro's benefits

Slovenia has demonstrated high public support for the euro, as highlighted in the latest Eurobarometer survey conducted between October 7 and 15, 2024. The survey involved 18,637 respondents across 20 countries in the euro area, including 1,011 participants from Slovenia. The results revealed that 86 percent of Slovenians believe that the euro has had a positive impact on the EU, while 81 percent of respondents consider it beneficial for Slovenia itself. The primary reason behind this strong support among Slovenians is the ease of comparing prices and shopping in other EU nations, with 92 percent of them acknowledging this advantage, significantly higher than the overall EU average of 81 percent. Furthermore, 90 percent of respondents in Slovenia expressed the view that the euro facilitates business transactions with other EU countries, which is above the EU average of 79 percent. The Eurobarometer survey also assessed public opinion regarding the recovery and resilience instrument, which provides 650 billion euros in grants and loans to member states. While 68 percent of respondents across the EU supported this recovery plan, the support in Slovenia was slightly lower at 62 percent. Additionally, the survey gathered insights on inflation expectations, indicating that 42 percent of Slovenian respondents anticipate a rise in inflation this year. This sentiment reflects a broader trend observed among euro area member states, where concerns surrounding inflation dominate public discourse. With 26 percent of respondents predicting no change and 24 percent expecting lower inflation, the unique economic context of Slovenia underscores varying perspectives among its citizens. Overall, this survey not only sheds light on the strong approval for the euro but also reveals important insights regarding public sentiment on economic issues in Slovenia and the euro area at large.