Eurobarometer Survey: 74% of Europeans Support Their Country's EU Membership

A Eurobarometer survey commissioned by the European Parliament shows that 74% of EU citizens believe their country benefits from EU membership, the highest level of support in 40 years. 90% of respondents agree that the EU should act more cohesively in the face of current global challenges. The survey involved over 26,000 people from all 27 member states.

A Eurobarometer survey commissioned by the European Parliament, with results released on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, shows that three out of four EU citizens view their country's membership in the European Union positively. 74% of respondents believe their country gains more benefits than drawbacks from membership, the highest level of support in the 40 years during which such measurements have been conducted.

Main reasons for support

Respondents most frequently cited the EU's role in maintaining peace and strengthening security, the importance of cooperation between countries, and the union's contribution to economic growth. 90% of survey participants agreed that the EU should act more cohesively than before in the face of global challenges, an increase of eight percentage points compared to half a year ago. About two-thirds of EU citizens want the union to play a greater role in protecting against global crises and security threats.

Sentiment and quality of life

When asked which feelings best describe the current situation, the majority of EU citizens on average selected "uncertainty", followed by "hope" and "confidence". Regarding quality of life, financial status and the ability to manage on one's own were considered most important, followed by physical and mental health, and social life.

Most respondents are satisfied with their quality of life. According to their assessment, the situation would most improve with an improvement in financial circumstances (43%), an increase in the quality and accessibility of health care services (37%), and greater diversity in social life (34%).

Expectations for the European Parliament

Respondents highlighted issues to which the European Parliament should, in their view, pay the most attention: inflation and the rising cost of living (46%), EU defence and security (43%), and the economy and job creation (33%). Younger respondents generally showed higher support for EU membership than older generations.

The survey was conducted in April and May by the research institute Verian in all 27 member states. Citizens aged 15 and older were surveyed, and a total of 26,421 interviews were conducted. When analysing EU aggregate results, account was taken of the size of the population in each member state.