At a time of geopolitical tension and global uncertainty, the European Union appears to be regaining the confidence of its citizens. According to the latest Eurobarometer survey published in May 2025, trust in the EU has reached its highest level since 2007, with 52% of Europeans expressing trust in the Union. The European Commission has also seen a surge in confidence, matching that 18-year high with 52% approval.

This renewed trust is accompanied by a sense of optimism about the EU’s future: 62% of respondents are hopeful, while only 18% report a negative image of the Union. A majority of Europeans (43%) continue to view the EU in a positive light, and another 38% hold a neutral view.

What do citizens expect from the EU in the years ahead? Security and defence clearly top the list. With 78% expressing concern over the EU’s security in the next five years and 81% supporting a common defence and security policy—the highest level recorded since 2004—it is no surprise that 39% of respondents named security and defence as the EU’s top medium-term priority. Other priorities include economic issues (29%), migration (24%), and climate and the environment (24%).

The survey also reveals a strong sense of global responsibility. Nearly 9 in 10 Europeans (88%) agree that more rules-based cooperation is needed internationally—an important signal in an increasingly fragmented world.

The euro continues to enjoy overwhelming support: 74% in the EU and 83% in the euro area are in favor of the single currency, marking the highest levels of support ever recorded. However, Europeans remain cautious about the economic outlook: while 44% rate the current European economy positively, 48% see it in a negative light. Still, 43% believe the economic situation will remain stable over the next year.

Notably, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues to shape public concern. For 77% of respondents, the war is considered a direct threat to EU security. It also remains the most pressing issue at EU level (27%), followed by the broader international situation (24%) and security and defence policy (20%).

As the EU prepares for future challenges—from energy transition and global partnerships to internal cohesion—this Eurobarometer paints a picture of a Union that is not only trusted and supported, but also expected to lead.

📊 Read the full Eurobarometer results here: Eurobarometer Survey Spring 2025