Poll Shows Rising Canadian Interest in EU Membership, but Legal Barriers Persist

A recent survey reveals growing Canadian support for joining the European Union, though EU treaties limit membership to European states.

A February poll by Abacus Data found that 44% of Canadians support joining the EU, while 34% oppose the idea, with 22% undecided.
The European Commission responded positively to the poll, highlighting shared values and historical ties between Canada and the EU, but clarified that EU membership is restricted to European states under Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union.
Canada's Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized strengthening trade coordination with the EU during G7 meetings and addressing U.S. tariffs alongside European allies.
The poll also revealed that 68% of Canadians view the EU positively, compared to only 34% for the U.S., signaling a shift in public sentiment toward Europe as a potential global ally.
Although geographically distant, Canada shares linguistic and cultural connections with the EU, but historical precedents, such as Morocco's rejected bid in 1987, suggest significant challenges to membership.