On the eve of Europe Day, a comprehensive new Eurobarometer survey reveals a continent increasingly leaning on the European Union as a "pillar of stability" in a volatile global landscape.
According to the Spring 2026 report, nearly 75% of Europeans believe their nation has benefited from EU membership, while three-quarters of respondents now formally identify as "citizens of the EU"—matching the highest level of European identity ever recorded.
A shift toward security and defense
As geopolitical tensions rise, the survey highlights a significant pivot in public priorities. Support for a common defense and security policy has surged to 81%, returning to levels not seen in two decades.
"Europeans increasingly view the EU as a stabilizing force in an uncertain world," the report notes, citing a 6-point jump in this sentiment to 73%.
This desire for security extends to trade, with roughly 80% of citizens advocating for diversified trade relations and stronger global partnerships to insulate the bloc from external shocks.
Sustained solidarity with Ukraine
Despite the prolonged nature of the conflict, support for Ukraine remains a cornerstone of EU public opinion. Key findings include:
76% of respondents view Russia’s invasion as a direct threat to EU security.
76% agree that support should continue until a "just and lasting peace" is reached.
80% back the welcoming of refugees fleeing the war.
56% support the EU-funded purchase and supply of military equipment to Kyiv.
Trust surges among youth, dips for Washington
Trust in the EU has climbed to 51%, with the most dramatic increases seen in France (+11 pp) and Denmark (+9 pp). This optimism is fueled largely by younger generations; 68% of those aged 15–24 report a positive outlook for the Union's future.
However, the "Global West" alignment appears to be fraying in the eyes of the public. Negative perceptions of the United States have skyrocketed to 74%, a sharp 14-point increase. In contrast, while Russia (83% negative) and China (61% negative) remain poorly viewed, India has emerged as a more favorable partner, with 48% of Europeans holding a positive opinion.
Economic duality: the euro vs. the cost of living
The survey paints a complex picture of the European economy. While the Euro enjoys record-high support—backed by 82% of those in the euro area—the "kitchen table" reality for many remains bleak.
|
Top Concerns |
National Level |
Personal Level |
|
Cost of Living |
36% |
52% |
|
Global Conflict |
25% |
— |
While the currency is viewed as a success, only 44% of citizens describe the current EU economy as "good." Looking forward, more than a third of the population (36%) expects economic conditions to worsen over the next year.
Investment priorities
When asked where the EU budget should be directed, citizens prioritized human-centric and security issues:
Employment, Social Affairs, and Health (41%)
Security and Defense (38%)
Education and Culture (37%)
Background note:
The Standard Eurobarometer 105 was conducted between March 12 and April 5, 2026, featuring face-to-face interviews with 26,415 citizens across all 27 Member States, as well as several candidate countries and the UK. Photo by Håkan Dahlström from Malmö, Sweden, Wikimedia commons.
