ESS1

The European Social Survey (ESS) is a new multi-country survey covering over 20 nations. Its twin aims are - firstly - to monitor and interpret changing public attitudes and values within Europe and to investigate how they interact with Europe's changing institutions, and - secondly - to advance and consolidate improved methods of cross-national survey measurement in Europe and beyond. The project is funded jointly by the European Commission's 5th Framework Programme, the European Science Foundation and academic funding bodies in each participating country, and is designed and carried out to exceptionally high standards. It involves strict random probability sampling, a minimum target response rate of 70% and rigorous translation protocols. The hour-long face-to-face interview includes (amongst others) questions on immigration, citizenship and socio-political issues.