A recent poll by European Movement Ireland has revealed changing opinions amongst Irish adults regarding Ireland’s relationship and role with the EU. One of the central findings is that a significant number of people in Ireland believe the EU should reduce its reliance on the United States, with approximately seven in ten respondents supporting this position. This reflects not a rejection of transatlantic ties, but rather a refiguration of how those relationships should operate as geopolitical tensions remain increasingly unstable.
The poll was conducted across the island of Ireland in late March 2026, by Amárach Research on behalf of European Movement Ireland. Question results were separated into two categories; Ireland and Northern Ireland, allowing for greater comparison of attitudes towards the EU.
Reporting on poll results by the Business Post makes note of Ireland’s particular exposure to US economic influence. Ireland’s reliance on American multinationals and transatlantic trade makes it especially sensitive to changes in US policy. This suggests why Irish respondents are not only supportive of EU autonomy in principle, but see it as economically necessary. The desire for expansion reflects an awareness of structural vulnerabilities in the Irish economy.
Ireland’s EU Membership
While there is strong support for reducing US reliance, overall sentiment towards the EU remains strongly positive. 82 per cent of respondents believe Ireland should remain a part of the EU, the same figure from 2025. This sentiment was seen across all age brackets and gender breakdowns. Despite this strong polling, just 45 per cent of respondents said they believe the EU is moving in the right direction, with a further 33 per cent believing the EU is not upholding its core values. When asked about reasoning for this belief, immigration control and economic issues were cited as the top two reasons. Further to this, a separate question asked what area does the EU perform the weakest in. 49 per cent said migration, followed by 18 per cent citing defence and security.
Another important insight is the expectation that the EU should play a more protective and involved role. Regarding Irish representation at an EU level, 35% believe their views are adequately represented, a 5% increase from 2025. However, a further 37% disagree and 27% remain unsure.
Ireland’s EU Council Presidency
These polling results come just weeks before Ireland assumes the EU presidency in July. Chief Executive of European Movement Ireland, David Geary, said that the EU presidency is an opportunity for Ireland ‘to play an important role as a bridge between the US and the EU’. Geary recognised that while many Irish people recognise the EU’s need for greater strategic independence in the current geopolitical context, there are still deep and enduring economic and cultural Ireland-US ties.
Irish public opinion highlights a balance between strong support for EU membership and a growing desire for greater strategic independence. While economic and cultural ties to the US remain important, there is clear demand for a more self-reliant EU that can address key issues like migration, security, and economic stability more effectively during a period of global uncertainty.
