Would Most Russians Prefer EU Membership with Access to the Euro Zone?

In exploring the potential benefits of EU membership for Russians, it's important to consider both the advantages and the challenges. Would most Russians here like to be in the EU € zone, gaining more freedom and a higher standard of living, and the ability to travel visa-free to places like Australia? Let's delve into the reasons behind this question and what Russians have to gain and lose.

Russia's High Standard of Living

Russia offers a high standard of living in many respects, particularly in terms of housing and daily comforts. During the winter, homes are well-heated, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature of 22-24°C. Air conditioning is also widely available, with many Russians having multiple units in their apartments. For instance, I have four units in my apartment, all of which work efficiently when the weather gets hot. It's surprising to learn that in places like France, many people cannot afford air conditioning, and it's often absent in hotels. In Russia, I can enjoy a warm bath every day without it costing me much. For many Europeans, such luxuries are typically reserved for the wealthy due to high costs and limited accessibility.

Efficient Delivery and Banking Systems

The delivery system in Russia is impressive. I can order food or other products from the comfort of my home, and they usually arrive within 15-20 minutes. Online shops serve the entire country, so even in small villages, you can find almost everything you need without having to visit large stores. The banking system is also efficient; I can send money on weekends and it arrives immediately. In contrast, my German friends have to travel 50 kilometers just to visit a bank branch for a simple transaction. Moreover, government services are accessible online, making it easy to complete various tasks digitally and obtain government certificates.

Locally-Produced Goods and Affordability

A significant advantage of living in Russia is access to fresh, locally-produced goods at affordable prices. Weekend markets play a crucial role in this, providing a direct connection between local farmers and consumers. This ensures that fresh produce, dairy products, and other items are available at competitive prices.

Comparing Russia with the EU

While Russia's standard of living is high, the comparison with the EU highlights significant differences. The average Russian citizen is freer and has a higher standard of living than the average EU citizen. Clearly, standards vary widely in the EU, and some countries, such as Spain and the Netherlands, are seen as top contenders in terms of living standards. However, there are many countries in the EU that have a significantly lower quality of life. For instance, the UK, Romania, Portugal, Greece, Poland, Slovakia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Estonia, and even France have standards of living that are notably lower.

Freedom and Travel

One of the key benefits mentioned is the ability to travel freely. If I were to be in the EU € zone, I would be freer to travel and work in different countries without the need for visas. This contrasts sharply with the current situation where, for example, Germans can enjoy visa-free travel to countries like Australia. The ability to travel freely is a significant aspect of living in the EU and is a crucial consideration for those contemplating membership.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

In conclusion, the decision to join the EU € zone comes with both benefits and challenges. While Russia already offers a high standard of living and efficient systems, there are indeed rewards in conforming to EU rules, gaining more freedom, and the potential to significantly improve the standard of living. However, the specifics of integration and the impact on specific sectors would need careful consideration to ensure a smooth transition and sustainable benefits for all Russian citizens.