Rising Concerns Drive Demand for Stronger EU Leadership

Recent surveys indicate a significant shift in public sentiment across the European Union, with citizens expressing a strong desire for more unified and assertive leadership. This demand arises in the context of heightened military threats, economic pressures, and climate instability. The Eurobarometer survey, conducted in November 2025, reveals that 69% of respondents support an expanded security role for the EU in global crises, while 87% advocate for a more diplomatically aggressive stance on issues such as peace and climate change.

EU survey: rising concerns push demand for more European action

The backdrop to these findings includes widespread pessimism about the state of the world, with 52% of Europeans feeling negative about future developments. Concerns about conflicts near the EU, terrorism, cyberattacks, and climate-related disasters are prevalent, with 72% of respondents worried about regional conflicts and 66% about climate impacts. This anxiety is compounded by a perceived lack of preparedness among citizens to cope with climate change, as highlighted in a separate survey by the European Environment Agency, which found that only 25% of respondents felt equipped to handle extreme weather events.

Overheated and underprepared: European survey finds citizens concerned about heat and ability to cope with climate changeEU survey: rising concerns push demand for more European action

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been vocal about the need for a stronger EU presence on the global stage, aligning with the survey results that reflect public support for enhanced EU capabilities. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola echoed these sentiments, stating that citizens expect the EU to act decisively in response to geopolitical tensions, emphasizing that "Europe is our strongest shield."

European Union citizens want more unified and bold leadership, survey suggests

Despite the overall support for a more robust EU, there are dissenting voices. Some citizens express skepticism about the EU's ability to effectively address these challenges, particularly in light of economic uncertainties. In Czechia, for instance, while a majority supports EU membership, concerns about reliance on non-EU countries for defense persist. This reflects a nuanced view among citizens who recognize the need for unity but remain cautious about the EU's effectiveness.

Eurobarometer survey: Czechs more optimistic than EU average, yet among the most Eurosceptic

The Eurobarometer survey results have prompted calls for increased EU resources to tackle global challenges, with 73% of respondents advocating for this. The findings suggest that citizens are looking for the EU to prioritize defense and security, competitiveness, and energy independence. Policymakers are urged to focus on implementing measures that enhance climate resilience and address the socio-economic disparities highlighted in the surveys.

Overheated and underprepared: European survey finds citizens concerned about heat and ability to cope with climate change

As the EU grapples with these pressing concerns, the emphasis on unity and assertiveness is likely to shape future policy decisions. The surveys indicate a clear mandate from citizens for the EU to strengthen its role in global affairs, particularly in defense and climate action. This evolving public sentiment may influence upcoming EU initiatives and legislative agendas aimed at addressing both immediate and long-term challenges facing the bloc.

European Union citizens want more unified and bold leadership, survey suggests

• “Geopolitical tensions shape Europeans’ daily sense of security. Citizens expect the European Union to protect, be prepared and act together. That is exactly what a stronger and more self-assertive Europe must deliver. Europe is our strongest shield,” — Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament

Majority of Europeans pessimistic about the state of world, new survey finds

• “The contrast between personal confidence and broader uncertainty has important implications, shaping citizens’ priorities, attitudes toward governance, and expectations for cooperation at national, European, and global levels,” — Eurobarometer Survey Analysis

European Union citizens want more unified and bold leadership, survey suggests

• “Overheated and underprepared: Europeans' experience of living with climate change The survey findings highlight that ensuring the well-being and prosperity of European society under a rapidly changing climate requires a broad implementation of measures preventing and preparing for climate impacts.” — Leena Ylä-Mononen, EEA Executive Director

Overheated and underprepared: European survey finds citizens concerned about heat and ability to cope with climate change

• “That is exactly what a stronger and more self-assertive Europe must deliver.” — Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament

Majority of Europeans pessimistic about the state of world, new survey finds

These findings underscore a pivotal moment for the EU, as citizens increasingly demand a proactive and unified response to the multifaceted challenges they face.

EU survey: rising concerns push demand for more European action