Rising confidence in the EU: key findings from the latest Eurobarometer

Amid an uncertain geopolitical landscape marked by global crises, security risks, and economic pressures, the European Parliament’s latest Eurobarometer reveals growing public confidence in the European Union. Conducted face-to-face with over 26,400 respondents across all 27 member states, the survey highlights a more positive perception of the EU than in recent years, with citizens viewing it as a source of stability and calling for stronger collective action.

Stronger positive image and optimism

52% of Europeans now hold a positive image of the EU – the highest level recorded since autumn 2021 (54%) and spring 2022 (52%).
42% believe things in the EU are “going in the right direction” – a notable +7 percentage point increase since January/February 2025, approaching the all-time high of 43% from spring 2022.
73% say their country has benefited from EU membership (near the record 74% from early 2025), citing peace and security (37%), better cooperation among member states (36%), and economic growth (29%) as the top benefits.
72% report that EU actions have a positive impact on their daily lives (50% positive, 31% neutral).
66% are optimistic about the EU’s future – levels last seen in 2020/2021.

These figures reflect resilience in the face of global challenges. A striking 90% of respondents say EU member states should be more united to tackle global issues, while 68% want the EU’s role in protecting against crises and security risks to become more important. Defence and security emerge as a top priority for the EU’s global position (37%), alongside competitiveness and the economy (32%).

Views on EU budget funding

Citizens strongly support a more robust and transparent EU budget to address shared challenges, with clear expectations for joint funding and oversight.78% believe that more projects will need to be funded jointly at EU level rather than by individual member states.

91% say it is important for the European Parliament to have full control and information on EU spending.
85% agree that EU funds to member states should be conditional on respect for the rule of law and democratic principles — with majorities recorded in every single member state.
73% favour the introduction of new EU-specific revenue sources to support the post-2027 budget.

Detailed country-by-country breakdowns for these budget questions are available in the official country factsheets, but the survey underscores near-universal support for democratic oversight and conditional funding across the EU.

Support for EU enlargement

A closely related Special Eurobarometer on attitudes towards EU enlargement (fieldwork February–March 2025, published September 2025) shows majority backing for further expansion once candidate countries meet the necessary criteria.56% of EU citizens are in favour of further enlargement (in 23 member states, support exceeds 50%).

Support is particularly strong among younger people (67% among 15–24 year olds) and those with higher education (70%).

Country-specific support for further enlargement (selected highlights):

Highest: Sweden (79%), Denmark (75%), Lithuania (74%).
Lowest: Czechia (43%), France (43%), Austria (45%).

Majority support also noted in countries such as Malta, Poland, Ireland, Slovenia, Hungary, Slovakia, Luxembourg, Italy (53%), Estonia, Latvia, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and others.

EU support for Ukraine

The Spring 2025 Eurobarometer confirms solid and consolidated support for the EU’s ongoing assistance to Ukraine, even as the conflict continues.77% of Europeans want the EU to support Ukraine until a just and lasting peace is achieved.

60% support granting Ukraine candidate status.

Additional strong majorities: financial and humanitarian aid (76%, +8 points since autumn 2024), reception of refugees (80%), and economic sanctions against Russia (72%).

Country-specific variations for support until a just peace is established:

Over 90%: Nordic countries (Sweden, Denmark, Finland) and Portugal.
Over 80%: Netherlands, Spain, Lithuania, Ireland.
Lower: Czech Republic (50%), Cyprus (49% in favour vs. 44% against).

Clear majorities exist in all other member states.

Support for Ukraine’s EU accession (once ready, from the dedicated enlargement survey): EU average: 52% in favour.

Highest: Sweden (91%), Denmark (81%), Finland (81%).
Lowest: Czechia (28%), Hungary (30%), Bulgaria (31%).

At least 50% in favour in 17 member states; Ukraine is the most favoured candidate country in 14 member states.

Overall message

The EP Spring 2025 Eurobarometer paints a picture of Europeans turning to the EU for stability and protection in turbulent times. While economic concerns like inflation remain top priorities (41%), citizens overwhelmingly back greater EU unity, joint funding mechanisms, conditional budgets, and sustained support for enlargement and Ukraine. Full country factsheets and the complete dataset are available on the official Eurobarometer portal for deeper national insights.

Caption: Banners promote May 9 Europe Day, in front of the European Council in Brussels, Belgium, 7 May 2026. EPA/OLIVIER MATTHYS