Full Breakdown
European Concerns: Disinformation and Security Threats
2/5/2026, 4:25:42 AM
Core Concerns Among Europeans
A recent Eurobarometer survey, conducted in late 2025, reveals that active wars near the European Union (EU) borders and disinformation are the foremost concerns for European citizens. The survey indicates that 72% of respondents expressed significant worry about ongoing conflicts near EU territories, while 69% voiced similar concerns regarding disinformation. Other notable security issues include terrorism (67%), climate change-related natural disasters (66%), and cyber-attacks from non-EU countries (66%). Delphine Colard, a spokesperson for the European Parliament, emphasized the widespread nature of these concerns across member states, highlighting a shift from regional to collective anxiety.
Heightened Concerns in Malta
Maltese citizens exhibit even greater apprehension regarding disinformation and online risks compared to the EU average. According to the survey, 79% of Maltese respondents reported high levels of concern about AI-generated fake content, surpassing the EU average of 68%. Additionally, 78% expressed worry about disinformation, while 76% were concerned about online hate speech and personal data protection. These figures underscore a pronounced unease in Malta regarding the implications of digital misinformation and emerging technologies on public discourse and democratic values.
Security and Safety Threats
Beyond communication-related issues, Maltese respondents also highlighted various security threats. A significant 81% expressed high concern about uncontrolled migration, followed closely by fears of cyberattacks (80%), active conflicts (79%), terrorism (75%), and climate change-induced natural disasters (71%). These findings align with broader EU trends but reflect a heightened sensitivity among Maltese citizens towards both traditional and non-traditional security threats.
Support for a Stronger EU
The survey results indicate robust support among Maltese citizens for a more assertive and united EU. An overwhelming 94% believe the EU should enhance its international voice, while 92% advocate for increased resources to tackle global challenges. Furthermore, 96% of respondents agree that EU member states should unite in addressing current crises. This sentiment is echoed across the EU, where 89% of respondents desire greater unity to confront global challenges.
Official Statements & Responses
Colard noted that the European Parliament is responding to these concerns by prioritizing issues such as inflation, job creation, and defense. She stated, "The question of competitiveness has been very high on the agenda," reflecting citizens' expectations for the Parliament to address pressing economic and security issues.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the overall support for EU membership, public perception has weakened since May 2025, with only 62% of citizens viewing their country's EU membership positively. This decline suggests a growing skepticism that may need to be addressed by EU institutions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “What is striking is to see that it's across member states,” — Delphine Colard, European Parliament Spokesperson
- “We've seen for the last year a bit of attacks on multilateralism, on values, a raise of hate speech or disinformation online.” — Delphine Colard, European Parliament Spokesperson
- “Almost all Maltese respondents (96%) agree that EU member states should be more united in responding to today's crises.” — Eurobarometer Survey Findings
The Eurobarometer survey highlights a complex landscape of concerns among European citizens, particularly in Malta, where anxiety about disinformation and security threats is pronounced. As the EU navigates these challenges, the call for unity and a stronger collective response remains a central theme.
