Recent Eurobarometer Survey Reveals EU Citizens Demand Greater Protection and Collective Action

A recent Eurobarometer survey conducted by the European Parliament indicates a significant desire among European citizens for the EU to enhance its protective role amidst global challenges. The data shows that two-thirds of respondents across the EU want the European Union to take a more active stance in safeguarding its citizens. This finding has been interpreted as a compelling call for action from EU leaders.

According to the survey results, 74% of European citizens believe that their countries benefit from EU membership, with 62% advocating for a more influential role for the European Parliament. Notably, 66% of respondents expressed the need for the EU to increase its efforts in addressing global crises and security threats. The primary political priorities identified by the populace include defense and security (36%) along with competitiveness (32%). Furthermore, 89% of EU citizens feel that member states should operate more cohesively to tackle current global challenges.

This Eurobarometer survey reflects a historical peak in support for EU membership, particularly in relation to maintaining peace and security. The findings highlight a growing consensus among citizens regarding the importance of solidarity in facing international issues. The survey also revealed that 76% of respondents across the EU, alongside 66% of Austrians, advocate for increased funding to manage crises effectively.

In light of the shifting geopolitical landscape, defense and security have emerged as top priorities for 36% of EU citizens, followed closely by economic and industrial concerns (32%). The focus on security remains consistent, while interest in economic matters has seen a notable increase. Other critical areas identified include energy independence (27%), food security (25%), and education and research (23%). In Austria, priorities reflect similar trends, with a strong emphasis on agriculture and food security (30%), energy independence (29%), and safety (29%).

When it comes to the issues the European Parliament should prioritize, inflation and rising living costs are seen as the most pressing concerns by 43% of respondents. This is followed by defense and security (31%), combating poverty (31%), and promoting economic growth and job creation (29%). In Austria, inflation tops the list at 46%, followed by poverty and social exclusion (33%) and migration and asylum (31%), the latter significantly exceeding the EU average of 22%. For 27% of the respondents, security is a priority, slightly lower than the EU average.

The economic situation continues to be a major concern, with 33% of EU citizens anticipating a decline in their standard of living over the next five years--an increase of seven points since mid-2024. This concern is even more pronounced in Austria, where the figure stands at 40%. The values of peace and democracy remain central to the EU identity; when asked about the fundamental values the European Parliament should promote, peace (45%), democracy (32%), and the protection of human rights both within the EU and globally (22%) were identified as top priorities.

Additionally, citizens expect decisive actions from the EU during times of crisis. When the EU is perceived as capable and effective, public support tends to rise. Currently, 50% of respondents view the EU favorably, which is a slight increase from previous surveys conducted during critical moments, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Trust in the EU and the European Parliament remains relatively stable, with 38% of Austrians rating the Parliament's performance positively, compared to the EU average of 41%. There is also a significant demand for a stronger role for the Parliament, with 53% of Austrians and 62% of EU citizens advocating for this change.

The Eurobarometer survey was conducted from January 9 to February 4, 2025, across all 27 EU member states, utilizing personal interviews supplemented by video interviews in select countries. The survey comprised 26,354 interviews, with results weighted according to the population of each member state.