The latest Eurobarometer survey commissioned by the European Parliament highlights the growing demand among Europeans for a stronger role for the EU in addressing global crises and security threats. According to the spring 2025 findings, 68% of citizens across the Union — and an even higher 77% in Greece — believe that the EU must strengthen its ability to protect its people from external challenges. In Cyprus, support reaches an overwhelming 91%.

Unity as a Shared Priority

The call for unity is equally pronounced. Nine in ten Europeans want member states to act together in facing global challenges, with Greek respondents registering even higher levels of support. A majority also agrees that the EU needs more resources to defend its place in an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment.

Expectations for the Next EU Budget

Looking ahead to the post-2027 long-term budget cycle, citizens want the EU to assume greater responsibility, ensure transparency, and invest in strategically important areas. Defense and security top the list of priorities at the European level (37%), followed by competitiveness, the economy, and industry (32%). In Greece, respondents place the economy and job creation first, alongside concerns over inflation and living costs, while defense ranks second.

Social and Economic Concerns

Public opinion also emphasizes the social dimension. Europeans see the fight against poverty and exclusion, as well as measures to address inflation, as critical for the European Parliament’s agenda. In Greece, nearly half of respondents underline economic support and job creation, with health care also emerging as a key priority.

Strong Support for Joint EU Investment

Citizens express strong support for collective investment: 78% of Europeans, 82% of Greeks, and 87% of Cypriots believe the EU should fund major projects jointly rather than rely solely on national budgets. Transparency remains a central demand, with more than nine in ten respondents across the Union insisting that the Parliament must have the tools to monitor EU spending. There is also broad consensus — 85% EU-wide and 95% in Greece — that access to EU funds should be conditional on respect for democratic principles and the rule of law.

Impact of EU Membership on Daily Life

Finally, the survey underscores the perceived impact of EU membership on daily life. In Greece, 83% acknowledge this influence, with mixed evaluations of its effect, while across the Union, 72% recognize the EU’s role in shaping everyday realities. Most Europeans believe their countries benefit from EU membership, citing peace, security, and cooperation as the strongest reasons.