A growing number of European citizens are expressing concern about security, stability, and geopolitical uncertainty, according to the European Parliament’s latest Eurobarometer survey published in January 2026. The findings suggest an increasing expectation that the European Union should act more decisively and cohesively in response to global challenges.

Security-related fears are widespread. Active conflicts near EU borders are the most cited concern, mentioned by 72% of respondents. Other major worries include terrorism (67%), cyber-attacks originating outside the EU (66%), natural disasters exacerbated by climate change (66%), and uncontrolled migration flows (65%). Communication-related risks are also prominent: 69% of citizens worry about disinformation, while 68% highlight concerns about hate speech, artificial intelligence-generated fake content, and insufficient data protection.

These anxieties appear linked to broader pessimism about global developments. Just over half of Europeans (52%) say they are pessimistic about the future of the world, while 39% express similar concerns about the EU’s future and 41% about their own countries. At the same time, optimism remains stronger at a personal level, with 76% saying they feel positive about their own future and that of their families.

Against this backdrop, there is strong support for greater European cooperation. Nearly nine in ten respondents (89%) believe EU member states should be more united to address global threats. Additionally, 73% favour increased EU resources to respond to international challenges, and 86% want the Union to have a stronger global voice. Two-thirds of respondents also expect the EU to play an active role in safeguarding citizens’ security.

When asked about priorities for strengthening Europe’s position globally, respondents most frequently cite defence and security (40%), followed by competitiveness and economic development (32%), and energy independence (29%). These priorities reflect both geopolitical tensions and ongoing economic concerns.

Domestic economic issues remain highly salient. Inflation, rising prices, and the cost of living are identified by 41% of citizens as key issues for the European Parliament to address, followed by economic growth and job creation (35%). While most expect living standards to remain stable over the next five years, 28% anticipate a decline.

Despite these concerns, attitudes toward EU membership remain broadly positive. Sixty-two percent consider their country’s EU membership beneficial, and favourable perceptions of EU institutions remain significantly higher than negative ones. Younger Europeans, in particular, tend to express stronger support for EU cooperation and a more prominent international role for the Union.

Overall, the survey highlights a European public increasingly attentive to security risks and geopolitical shifts, while also signalling continued support for collective European action and integration.

References

European Parliament. (2026, February 02). EU survey: rising concerns push demand for more European action. Retrieved from News European Parliament: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20260126IPR32643/eu-survey-rising-concerns-push-demand-for-more-european-action

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