Brussels, September 4, 2025 — A new EU-wide survey shows that Europeans are increasingly looking to the European Union to play a stronger role in protecting citizens against international crises and security threats, while also pushing for greater transparency and unity among Member States.
According to the latest Eurobarometer survey, conducted by the European Parliament, 68% of respondents want the EU to take a more active role in shielding its citizens from global risks. The call for solidarity is even louder when it comes to cooperation between Member States, with nine out of ten Europeans (90%) urging governments to work more closely together to face the current geopolitical landscape.
Defence, Economy and Security Top the Agenda
The survey highlights citizens’ concerns over the current political and economic climate. When asked about the EU’s priorities on the world stage, defence and security (37%) emerged as the top area of focus, followed by competitiveness, economy and industry (32%).
At a domestic level, Europeans are particularly worried about inflation and the rising cost of living (41%), issues that have remained top concerns since the last European elections. Defence and security (34%) and the fight against poverty and social exclusion (31%) were also cited as key areas for the European Parliament to prioritize.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola emphasized the importance of these results, stating:
“EU citizens want Europe to focus on security and the economy. They look to the EU for stability and expect a strong and united European voice in today’s uncertain world. Our priorities and the EU’s next long-term budget must therefore allow the Union to tackle new geopolitical realities. Parliament has listened and now, we must put our money where our mouth is, invest in what matters and deliver for our citizens.”
Push for Joint Financing and Greater Transparency
The results reveal a clear desire for common financing of major projects, with 78% of Europeans supporting the idea of funding more initiatives at the EU level rather than individually by Member States.
At the same time, transparency and accountability remain crucial. An overwhelming 91% of respondents believe that the European Parliament must have all necessary tools and information to oversee EU spending effectively.
Additionally, 85% of citizens support making EU funds conditional on Member States’ compliance with democratic values and the rule of law.
EU Membership Seen as Beneficial
The survey also found that Europeans continue to view EU membership positively. Nearly three out of four respondents (73%) believe their country has benefited from being part of the EU, citing contributions to peace and security (37%), improved cooperation between Member States (36%), and economic growth (29%).
Furthermore, 72% say EU actions have a direct impact on their daily lives, with half describing this impact as positive (50%).
About the Survey
The Spring 2025 Eurobarometer survey was carried out by research agency Verian between 5 and 29 May 2025, across all 27 EU Member States. It included 26,410 face-to-face and video interviews (CAVI), with results weighted according to each country’s population size.
The findings provide valuable insights as EU institutions prepare to define priorities for the post-2027 long-term budget, aiming to align funding with citizens’ expectations for a stronger, more united Europe.
