The cost of living is the main concern for European citizens, a survey commissioned by the European Parliament and conducted mainly in January has confirmed.
In the key finding, 43% of respondents identified "inflation, rising prices, and the cost of living" as the top issues they want the EU to address. Following this, 32% prioritised the fight against poverty and social exclusion.
Defence and security of the EU were highlighted by 31% of respondents, far ahead of migration and asylum concerns (29% for Belgian respondents, 22% for the entire EU).
Action against climate change was ranked fifth (25% for Belgium, 21% for the EU).
The Eurobarometer survey interviewed over 26,000 citizens, including around a thousand Belgians, between 9 January and 4 February.
Since the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term, there has been an increased awareness among Europeans on the need to rearm, particularly given the closer ties between Washington and Moscow.
According to more than a third of respondents (39% of Belgians; 36% of Europeans), the EU should focus on defence and security to strengthen its global position.
Energy independence and infrastructure followed (27%), ahead of competitiveness, economy, and industry (27% and 32% respectively).
