A large majority of Europeans believe their countries benefit from being part of the European Union, according to the latest Eurobarometer survey, which shows rising confidence
in the EU’s role amid global instability.
The survey, carried out in autumn 2025 across all 27 Member States, reveals that 74% of EU citizens think their country has gained from membership—one of the strongest endorsements in recent years. Optimism about the Union’s future also remains high, with 59% expressing confidence in the EU’s direction and 73% saying they feel like EU citizens. Nearly half of respondents (48%) continue to trust the EU.
Growing demand for a more robust EU
As geopolitical tensions deepen, Europeans overwhelmingly want a more assertive and resilient Union. Two-thirds (67%) of respondents view the EU as a stabilizing force in a turbulent world, while an impressive 83% say the bloc should diversify its trade relations to strengthen economic independence.
Support for collective defence is also rising. Nearly eight in ten Europeans (79%) favour a common defence and security policy—the second-highest level since 2004. When asked which EU actions would most improve their lives in the short term, citizens prioritized peace and stability (42%), followed by job creation (26%), securing key food, health and industrial supplies** (25%), and managing irregular migration (24%).
On budget priorities, Europeans want EU funds directed primarily toward employment, social affairs and public health (42%), education and culture (36%), and defence and security (35%).
Record support for the euro
Confidence in the common currency has reached unprecedented levels. Seventy-four percent of EU citizens support the euro—the highest figure recorded—while support within the euro area stands at 82%, the second-highest on record.
Views on the EU economy remain mixed, with respondents split evenly between those who consider the economic situation “good” and those who view it as “bad” (46% each). Nearly half expect the economic outlook to remain stable over the next year.
Stable backing for EU actions on Ukraine
Europeans continue to support the EU’s response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Eighty-one percent approve of welcoming people fleeing the conflict, while 77% endorse providing financial and humanitarian aid. Seventy-three percent back economic sanctions against Russia, and significant majorities also support Ukraine’s EU candidate status (59%) and EU-funded military assistance (57%).
The conflict remains the most pressing concern at the EU level, cited by 26% of respondents, followed by immigration (20%), the international situation (19%), and security and defence (18%). A striking 77% believe Russia’s invasion poses a threat to EU security.
Survey background
The Standard Eurobarometer 104 was conducted between 9 October and 5 November 2025. In total, 26,445 EU citizens were interviewed face-to-face across the EU. Additional interviews were conducted in nine candidate and potential candidate countries (excluding Ukraine) as well as the United Kingdom.