Majority of EU citizens support stronger EU role in security
- A new Eurobarometer survey indicates that a majority of EU citizens desire the EU to enhance its role in global security and crisis management.
- The survey found that support varied by member state, with different priorities reported across various countries.
- This widespread call for action highlights the urgency for EU institutions to respond effectively to security concerns.
In early 2025, a Eurobarometer survey conducted by the European Parliament revealed that a significant portion of European citizens desire enhanced involvement from the EU in addressing global crises and security challenges. Conducted between January 9 and February 4, over 26,000 individuals from various EU member states participated, illuminating widespread sentiment across the bloc. Notably, consultation revealed that countries exhibited varying degrees of support, with nations such as Sweden and Greece showing particularly high figures in favor of an increased EU role, while others like Romania and Poland lagged behind in enthusiasm. In Germany, a representative nation within the EU, the survey reported a 73% approval rate for a stronger EU security role, exceeding the overall EU average of 66%. This indicates a pronounced demand for the EU to bolster its defenses and security strategies amidst growing global uncertainties, a reflection of the evolving geopolitical landscape. Meanwhile, citizens in different member states identified diverse priorities, highlighting regional disparities in what EU involvement should emphasize, ranging from economic competitiveness to cultural issues. There was a stark agreement among respondents on one central aspect: the understanding of EU membership benefits. Approximately 76% of Germans credited their EU affiliation with positive outcomes, slightly higher than the EU average. The surveyed population largely believed that collaborative EU strategies would fortify collective peace and security, a significant concern for them as global challenges mount. Moreover, when respondents were asked to rank their most pressing priorities, inflation and the cost of living emerged on top, with 43% highlighting these economic challenges. Following closely, 31% indicated that EU defense and security was also paramount. The survey emphasized a prevailing optimism about the EU’s potential responsiveness, suggesting that citizens are keen for unified action in tackling current issues. The findings serve as a critical call to action for EU institutions, highlighting the need for a proactive stance in governance to enhance the safety and security of its member states.