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Survey: 52% of Europeans Pessimistic About Global Issues

2/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A Eurobarometer survey finds 52 percent of Europeans are pessimistic about the world's direction.
41 percent are negative about their own country and 39 percent about the EU.
Concerns include terrorism, cyberattacks, climate disasters, and migration.
89 percent want member states to collaborate on global threats.
The survey took place from November 6 to 30, 2025, with 26,453 respondents across all 27 EU member states.

History

Historical Context

The 2008 global financial crisis severely impacted the European Union, causing a 4.5% GDP contraction and rising Euroscepticism, particularly in countries like Greece, where 81% felt the EU was heading in the wrong direction. Today, a Eurobarometer survey reveals that 52% of Europeans remain pessimistic about global trends, highlighting ongoing challenges in unifying member states against issues like terrorism and climate change.

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Story summary

A Eurobarometer survey finds 52 percent of Europeans are pessimistic about the world's direction.
41 percent are negative about their own country and 39 percent about the EU.
Concerns include terrorism, cyberattacks, climate disasters, and migration.
89 percent want member states to collaborate on global threats.
The survey took place from November 6 to 30, 2025, with 26,453 respondents across all 27 EU member states.

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