A new Eurobarometer survey released today reveals that Europeans view respect for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law (38%) as well as economic, industrial, and

trading power (34%) as the EU's primary strengths. Additionally, 28% of respondents highlight good relationships and solidarity among EU Member States.

Priority Areas for the EU

When asked which areas the EU should prioritize, respondents most frequently mentioned the environment and climate change (33%) and irregular migration (33%), followed by security and defense (29%) and the war in Ukraine (25%).

Challenges Facing the EU

The war in Ukraine is identified as the top challenge facing the EU, cited by 50% of respondents. Irregular migration (41%) and environmental issues and climate change (35%) are seen as the second and third most significant challenges, respectively.

EU Values

Europeans overwhelmingly identify respect for fundamental rights and values and freedom of speech and expression (both at 53%) as the values best embodied by the EU compared to other countries.

Optimism for the Future

Future of the EU: 58% of Europeans are optimistic about the EU's future, while 37% are pessimistic.

EU Democracy: 55% express confidence in the strength of EU democracy over the next five years, with 41% lacking confidence.

EU Security: 64% of EU citizens are concerned about the EU's security over the next five years.

EU Economy: 51% are confident in the EU economy's performance in the next five years, whereas 45% remain skeptical.

Survey Details

The Flash Eurobarometer 550 was conducted online between June 25 and July 2, 2024, across the 27 EU Member States, with 25,658 EU citizens participating.

For more information, please refer to the official Eurobarometer report.