European citizens are increasingly looking to the European Union to protect them from global crises and security risks. Citizens across Member States, including Malta,are calling for a more united EU with wider access to resources to address economic pressures, security concerns and other pressing global issues. The findings from the latest Eurobarometer survey, published earlier this week, indicate rising support for the EU’s role, a growing appreciation of the benefits of membership, and an increased desire for a stronger European Parliament.
In what appears to be a reaction to recent statements by US President Donald Trump and a colder approach towards the old continent, as well as increasing geopolitical tensions on Europe’s borders, public approval of EU membership has reached a historic high. According to the survey, 74% of Europeans believe that their country benefits from being part of the EU—an all-time record since the question was first posed in 1983. This positive perception reflects growing awareness of how EU membership supports peace, economic cooperation, and security in an increasingly volatile world. Maltese citizens offer one of the highest degrees of approval, with 92% saying that the country has benefited since joining the club in 2004.
The survey also reveals a shift in what citizens value most about EU membership. For the first time, protecting peace and strengthening security (35%) has become the most cited benefit across the EU, reflecting growing concerns about global instability. This marks a three-point increase since the summer, highlighting how recent geopolitical developments are shaping public opinion. Improved cooperation between Member States, which had traditionally been the most valued aspect, now ranks second at 34%, a slight decrease of two points compared to previous surveys.
In Malta, however, the focus remains on economic benefits, with 50% of respondents viewing the EU’s contribution to economic growth as the most significant advantage. While peace and security remain less of a priority for Maltese respondents, 17% now recognise the EU’s role in these areas—an increase of 4%, suggesting that global uncertainties are gradually influencing Maltese public attitudes.
The Call for Unity
A striking 89% of respondents believe that greater unity among EU countries is essential to effectively tackle global challenges. This sentiment is shared by at least 75% of citizens in every Member State, which appears to indicate that attempts to destabilise the Union is actually contributing to achieving a broad consensus on the need for collective action. As the world faces complex issues like climate change, geopolitical tensions, and economic uncertainty, Europeans clearly want to see their nations working together through the EU framework.
The survey also reveals a growing desire for the European Parliament to play a more prominent role in shaping the future of the Union. A record 62% of respondents favour an empowered Parliament, a six-point increase over the past year. This upward trend suggests that citizens recognise the importance of a robust democratic institution capable of responding to their concerns and shaping policies that affect their daily lives.
Addressing Inflation remains top priority
Economic competitiveness is emerging as a critical area of focus, with 32% of respondents identifying it as a priority—an increase of five points over the past year. As inflation and the rising cost of living weigh heavily on households, there is a clear expectation that the EU should prioritise economic stability and industrial growth to maintain its competitive edge.
In fact, addressing inflation and the cost of living is now the most urgent issue for 46% of Maltese respondents who want the European Parliament to tackle these economic pressures as a matter of urgency. This largely reflects the sentiment across the EU (43%).
The survey also reveals concerns about the future. A notable 33% of European respondents expect their standard of living to decline over the next five years—seven points higher than immediately after the recent European elections. This reflects rising economic uncertainty and the need for responsive policies to safeguard citizens’ welfare. In Malta, expectations are generally positive, but the survey still sees a 6% increase, up to 22% of respondents, expecting their standard of living to suffer in the years ahead.
Growing Awareness of the EU’s Protective Role
When asked where the EU should focus its efforts to strengthen its global position, 36% of respondents pointed to defence and security as the top priority. This reflects growing anxieties over regional and global conflicts and a clear demand for the EU to play a more active role in safeguarding its citizens. Interestingly, despite concerns on issues surrounding neutrality, 82% of Maltese respondents think that in the future, the EU should assume a wider role in protecting its citizens against global crises and security risks.
The EU’s ability to protect its citizens from global crises is increasingly recognised. Two-thirds (66%) of Europeans want the EU’s protective role to become even more import
ant, while 50% acknowledge that this role has already expanded in recent years.
Stable Values in Changing Times
While political priorities may shift, the core values that Europeans want the EU to defend remain unchanged. Peace (45%), democracy (32%), and human rights (22%) continue to top the list, as they did a year ago. This enduring commitment to fundamental principles underscores the public’s belief in the EU as a guardian of these essential values.
As the EU faces an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the survey’s findings send a clear message: Europeans want a more united, proactive Union that can effectively address both immediate and long-term challenges. With record levels of support for EU membership and a growing desire for stronger institutions, the European Union has a clear mandate from its citizens to lead with vision and purpose.
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