Eurobarometer: Seven in ten Greeks feel pessimistic about country’s direction
Rising inflation, soaring prices and the high cost of living are the top concerns for Greeks, according to the latest Eurobarometer survey published by the European Parliament.
The findings show that 69% of respondents in Greece believe the country is moving in the wrong direction, while just 22% see things going well. Half of Greeks expect their standard of living to remain unchanged over the next five years, but more than one in three fear it will decline. Only 15% anticipate improvement.
When asked what issues the European Parliament should prioritize, Greeks pointed first to tackling inflation and living costs, followed by supporting the economy, job creation, healthcare and fighting poverty.
Despite domestic pessimism, Greeks remain strongly supportive of a greater EU role in global challenges.
Some 77% want the EU to better protect citizens from crises and security risks — above the EU average of 68%.
Nine in ten Greeks also favor stronger unity among member states.
Interestingly, while most Greeks are negative about national developments, a slight majority (52%) express optimism about the EU’s future, compared to 46% who are pessimistic.
The survey was conducted by Verian between 5 and 29 May 2025 across all 27 EU member states, with more than 26,000 interviews.
