Citizens across Europe are pressing for a more competitive EU, with a focus on strengthening the economy and industry in order to tackle global challenges. In response to geopolitical threats such as Russia’s actions in Ukraine and potential US tariffs on European goods, a majority of Europeans are calling for increased investment in security and defense. The Eurobarometer Winter Survey 2025, conducted earlier this year, revealed a growing demand for measures to enhance competitiveness and industry within the EU. While issues like food security, agriculture, climate action, and emission reductions have decreased in priority, there has been a slight uptick in interest in education and research. Additionally, there has been a decline in emphasis on European values like democracy and human rights.
European Parliament spokesperson Delphine Colard noted that the survey results indicate a trend where people are looking towards the EU for stability in times of uncertainty. For example, a majority of Europeans (74%) believe that being a part of the EU has benefited them, the highest percentage recorded since the question was first posed in 1983. The survey also highlighted concerns about the impact of inflation and joblessness on the standard of living for many Europeans. The prevailing sentiment among respondents is that their standard of living will remain stagnant in the coming years, with an increasing number (7.7% more than the previous year) expecting a decline in their living conditions.
As the EU strives to address the various challenges facing the continent, there is a clear call from citizens for the bloc to bolster its security and defense capabilities. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the looming threat of US tariffs have underscored the need for a robust security strategy. The survey findings also point to a shift in priorities, with a greater focus on enhancing competitiveness and industry. While issues like food security, agriculture, and climate action have taken a back seat, there is a growing interest in areas like education and research. However, there has been a decline in the emphasis on European values such as democracy and human rights.
The Eurobarometer Winter Survey 2025 sheds light on the evolving priorities and concerns of European citizens, highlighting the importance of a strong and resilient EU in the face of uncertainty. The survey results reflect a trend where people are increasingly looking towards the EU for stability and support. With a majority of Europeans recognizing the benefits of EU membership, there is a growing sense of cohesion and solidarity across the continent. As the EU navigates through various challenges, including geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, citizens are calling for a more competitive and secure bloc that is equipped to tackle global challenges.
Despite the shifting priorities and concerns highlighted in the survey, the overarching theme is one of resilience and unity within the EU. As citizens across Europe grapple with economic uncertainties and geopolitical threats, there is a growing sense of solidarity and support for a stronger and more competitive EU. The survey findings underscore the importance of investing in security and defense, as well as enhancing competitiveness and industry to meet the challenges of the 21st century. With a majority of Europeans acknowledging the benefits of EU membership, there is a strong belief in the collective strength and resilience of the bloc in the face of adversity.
