Europeans consider the war in Ukraine to be the most serious challenge for the EU – Eurobarometer poll
14 November 20:15
A new Eurobarometer poll has shown that almost half of EU citizens (47%) consider Russian aggression against Ukraine to be the main threat to the European bloc, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
Nevertheless, Europeans continue to highly rate the EU as the institution that best implements democratic values: 55% of respondents noted respect for fundamental rights and freedoms and freedom of speech, and 52% – social equality and welfare.
Future priorities
Regarding the future policy priorities of the bloc, citizens are most focused on security and defense (34%), irregular migration (32%) and the war in Ukraine (27%).
Although the issue of Ukraine was ranked third among the long-term challenges, it is perceived as the most pressing and defining challenge for Europe today.
Support for EU actions
In addition, most Europeans believe that member states can achieve better results in trade negotiations and economic partnerships by working together at the EU level rather than acting independently (79%), and that the EU should diversify its trade relations with countries around the world to strengthen its economic independence and support EU businesses (83%).
A significant majority also supports EU actions aimed at strengthening the economy at home. 81% of respondents agree that the EU should take action to help EU industry become more competitive and decarbonize, and 82% agree that the EU should take action to support equity between social groups and generations.
The results of the survey emphasize that Russia’s war against Ukraine remains a central issue for EU citizens and shapes their vision of the bloc’s political and security priorities.
