A new Eurobarometer survey published recently shows that Europeans identify respect for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law (38%) and economic, industrial, and trading power (34%) as the main strengths of the EU, followed by the good relationships and solidarity between the EU Member States (28%). As areas the EU should address as a priority, respondents most frequently mention the environment and climate change (33%) and irregular migration (also 33%), followed by security and defence (29%) and the war in Ukraine (25%).
At the same time, the war in Ukraine ranks first in terms of challenges that the EU is facing, mentioned by 50% of the respondents. Irregular migration and environmental issues and climate change follow in second and third place, respectively, with 41% and 35%.
When asked about the values that are best embodied by the EU compared to other countries in the world, Europeans clearly indicate respect for fundamental rights and values and freedom of speech and expression (each at 53%).
Overall optimism about the years to come
- 58% of Europeans tend to be optimistic about the future of the EU, while 37% tend to be pessimistic.
- 55% of them say they are very or somewhat confident in the strength of the EU’s democracy in the next five years, while 41% are somewhat or very unconfident.
- On the other hand, 64% of EU citizens tend to be concerned about the EU’s security in the next five years.
- Finally, 51% express confidence in the performance of the EU’s economy in the next five years, while 45% are more sceptical.
Background
The Flash Eurobarometer 550 was conducted between 25 June and 2 July 2024 across the 27 Member States. 25,658 EU citizens were interviewed online.
