A newly released Eurobarometer survey from the European Parliament shows overwhelming support among EU citizens for a more united and proactive European Union,
especially in the face of global crises and security threats.
Strong support for EU membership and unity
Nearly three-quarters of Europeans (74%) believe their country benefits from being part of the EU—the highest approval recorded since the question was first asked in 1983. The main reason cited? The EU’s role in maintaining peace and strengthening security (35%).
An overwhelming 89% of respondents believe EU member states should act more united to address global challenges. Additionally, 76% agree the EU needs more tools and resources to effectively tackle future threats.
A call for greater EU protection
Two-thirds of Europeans (66%) want the EU to play a bigger role in protecting them from global crises and security risks. This sentiment is especially strong among younger citizens. National support varies widely, from a high of 87% in Sweden to 47% in Romania and 44% in Poland.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola responded to the findings, stating:
"Two thirds of Europeans want the EU to play a greater role in their protection. This is a clear call for action. Europe needs to be stronger so that our citizens feel safer."
Top priorities: security, competitiveness, and the economy
When asked about policy priorities, 36% of respondents pointed to defence and security, followed by competitiveness, economy, and industry at 32%. Energy independence (27%), food security and agriculture (25%), and education and research (23%) also ranked high.
In terms of what the European Parliament should focus on, inflation and the rising cost of living top the list (43%), followed by defence and security (31%), combating poverty (31%), and job creation (29%). Concerns over inflation are especially high in Portugal, France, Slovakia, Croatia, and Estonia.
Looking ahead, 33% of Europeans expect their standard of living to decline over the next five years, up from 26% in mid-2024. French (53%) and German (47%) respondents are particularly pessimistic.
Citizens still firm on core EU values
When it comes to the values they want the European Parliament to defend, peace (45%) remains at the top, followed by democracy (32%) and human rights (22%). These figures have remained stable, showing consistent support for the EU’s founding principles.
Support for a stronger European Parliament
Support for a more influential European Parliament is on the rise. Today, 62% of Europeans want it to play a more important role—up six points from early 2024. Meanwhile, 50% have a positive image of the EU overall, and 41% view the Parliament positively.
About the survey
The European Parliament’s Winter 2025 Eurobarometer was conducted between 9 January and 4 February 2025 across all 27 EU Member States. A total of 26,354 people were interviewed face-to-face (with some video interviews in specific countries). The results are weighted based on each country’s population size.