Most Europeans see defence and security as the main way to strengthen the EU’s global role, according to the Eurobarometer Spring Survey 2025 released on Wednesday. Thirty-seven per cent of respondents chose defence and security as their top priority, ahead of competitiveness, economy, and industry (32%), and energy independence, resources, and infrastructure (27%).
Defense and security ranked highest in 13 of the 27 EU states, including France, Germany, and Poland. In 10 others, such as Italy and Greece, competitiveness and the economy were considered the most critical factors. Food security and agriculture were the top concerns in Slovenia, Slovakia, and Romania. Spain stood out for prioritizing education and research, while Sweden and Malta emphasized democracy and human rights.
The survey, conducted from May 5–29 through 26,410 video interviews, also highlighted inflation and rising living costs as the top issue the European Parliament should address (41%), followed by defense and security (34%) and poverty and social exclusion (31%).
Public sentiment toward the EU also improved, with 52% expressing a favourable view, marking the third time in 20 years that a majority has done so. Analysts say the results reflect growing concern over global instability and the EU’s ability to protect its citizens. The survey suggests Europeans increasingly link security with the Union’s credibility on the world stage.
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