The latest Eurobarometer survey by the European Parliament shows that 68 percent of EU citizens expect the Union to take more responsibility. In the Netherlands, this percentage is even higher, at 74 percent.
Moreover, nine out of ten Europeans believe that EU countries should seek joint solutions to global challenges. There is also broad agreement regarding the money needed for this: 77 percent of citizens think the EU should receive more instruments and budget to respond adequately. In the Netherlands, 73 percent share this view.
According to those surveyed, the Union should mainly focus on Defense and security (37 percent) and on economy, industry, and competitiveness (32 percent). For the Dutch, the emphasis on security is even stronger: nearly half name it as a top priority.
When Europeans are asked which topics should be prioritized in the European Parliament, high inflation, rising prices, and cost of living come first (41 percent), followed by Defense and security (34 percent) and fighting poverty (31 percent). The Dutch emphasize different issues: for them, security ranks first with 56 percent, followed by climate action (37 percent) and migration and asylum (34 percent).
A large part of the population expects the EU to also collaborate more financially. Nearly eight out of ten Europeans advocate for more joint projects funded at the EU level, so that investments can be deployed more purposefully and efficiently. In the Netherlands, support for this is slightly higher, at 79 percent.
Finally, the Eurobarometer shows that Europeans not only expect more unity in times of crisis but also an open attitude towards the outside world. A majority are positive about further expansion of the Union, especially among young people. This is seen as a way to strengthen stability and democracy in Europe. The survey was conducted in May 2025 among 26,410 citizens across all 27 EU countries.
The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, emphasized in a response that the Union must respond to the clear expectations of citizens. According to her, Europeans are asking for stability, security, and a strong joint voice in an uncertain world. “Our next multiannual financial framework must enable Europe to face the new geopolitical reality,” Metsola stated.
Next week, after the return from the summer recess, discussions and negotiations will begin in Brussels and Strasbourg on the multiannual financial framework (MFF), the 2026 budget, and the multiannual common Agricultural Budget (CAP).