The general mood among citizens fluctuates between uncertainty (44%) and hope (43%). These are the two feelings citizens most frequently choose to describe their current state of mind. The latest Eurobarometer survey by the European Parliament was published last Wednesday.
Alliance
Further results show that many European citizens see the EU as a safe haven in times of geopolitical uncertainty. 75% of Europeans believe the EU provides stability in a turbulent world. This is an increase of eight percentage points since October-November 2025 and the second highest percentage in the past ten years.
The world is in motion and alliances are constantly shifting. In this context, three-quarters (74%) of Europeans consider EU membership useful: a record as high as last year.
Promotion
Security
The EU's contribution to protecting peace and enhancing security is seen as the most important benefit of membership (40%, +3 percentage points). The second most important benefit is the improved cooperation between EU countries that comes with membership (34%).
“In this time of global uncertainty, Europeans increasingly see the European Union as a beacon of stability. In a restless world, that trust is Europe’s greatest asset. There is a clear expectation that we will act decisively to provide our citizens with safety, prosperity, and opportunities,” said European Parliament President Roberta Metsola.
Energy
European citizens believe the EU should strengthen its position in the world by focusing on defense and security (39%) and energy independence (35%). The latter figure has increased by six percentage points compared to autumn 2025, likely due to the blockade of the Persian Gulf.
In light of numerous challenges, EU citizens want the European Union to step up its efforts. 68% of Europeans think the EU should play a more important role in protecting citizens against global crises and security risks.
Quality of Life
The 2026 spring Eurobarometer of the Parliament examined how citizens experience their quality of life in the EU. Overall, it is positively assessed: most respondents (83%) say they are satisfied with their quality of life, while 17% are not satisfied.
More Gloomy
People who sometimes cannot pay their bills judge their life situation more negatively. Physical and mental health (51%) and financial situation (49%) are considered the most important features of good quality of life.
Nearly three out of ten citizens (29%) expect their living standard to decline in the coming years, while half of the citizens think it will remain unchanged and 18% expect their living standard to rise. The fear of a declining living standard is most pronounced in France (44%), Portugal (39%) and Germany and Austria (both 38%).