Eurobarometer: EU citizens demand greater protection amid political and economic uncertainty
According to the findings, 68% of Europeans believe the EU should play a greater role in safeguarding its citizens. The sentiment is even stronger in Greece (77%) and Cyprus (91%). At the same time, nine out of ten EU citizens call for greater unity among member states—with support reaching 92% in Greece and 95% in Cyprus. Furthermore, 77% of Europeans believe the EU needs more tools to tackle global challenges, a view shared by 81% of Greeks and 85% of Cypriots.
Citizens’ Priorities
When asked where the EU should focus its efforts, respondents emphasized defense and security (37%), alongside competitiveness, economy, and industry (32%).
In Greece, the top priority is the economy and job creation (38%), followed by defense and security (32%).
In Cyprus, respondents prioritize competitiveness and the economy (46%), while education and research (33%) come second.
On issues for the European Parliament specifically, citizens pointed to inflation, high living costs (41%), defense and security (34%), and fighting poverty and social exclusion (31%).
In Greece, the leading concerns are support for the economy and job creation (49%) along with inflation and the cost of living (49%), followed by public health support (44%).
In Cyprus, the top issue is poverty reduction (42%), followed by inflation and living costs (39%), and both job creation and public health support (36%).
EU’s Role in Daily Life
Nearly 72% of Europeans state that EU actions affect their daily lives. Half of these consider the impact positive, 31% neutral, and 18% negative.
In Greece, 83% see EU actions influencing daily life, with 34% rating the effect as positive, 38% neutral, and 28% negative.
In Cyprus, 86% acknowledge an impact, with 36% positive, 44% neutral, and 20% negative.
Overall, 73% of Europeans believe that EU membership brings stability to their countries. The key benefits cited are peace and security (37%), improved cooperation among member states (36%), and economic growth (29%).
In Greece and Cyprus, the top perceived benefit is peace and security (45% and 39% respectively).
Cypriot respondents also highlight economic development and job opportunities (33% each), while Greeks point to enhanced cooperation (34%) and the EU giving them a stronger voice globally (34%).
Shared Funding for Shared Challenges
Almost eight in ten Europeans (78%) believe that more projects should be jointly funded by the EU, rather than solely by individual member states—a view echoed by 82% of Greeks and 87% of Cypriots.
