EU Trust Hits 18-Year High Amid Global Trade Shifts and Security Concerns

A European Commission Eurobarometer survey reveals 52% of Europeans now trust the EU, the highest level since 2007, with younger citizens aged 15–24 leading at 59%.

Conducted from March 26 to April 22, 2025, across all 27 member states, the poll highlights stark contrasts: only 36% trust national governments, while 74% back the euro and 83% in the eurozone support monetary union.

Economic optimism remains split—44% call the EU economy “good,” but 48% disagree. The European Commission projects modest 1.1% GDP growth for 2025, with inflation easing to 1.7% by 2026.

Security priorities dominate, as 81% endorse a unified EU defense policy, aligning with a new €150 billion arms fund approved days before the survey.

This move responds to fears of Russian aggression and fading U.S. security guarantees under President Donald Trump, who postponed 50% tariffs on EU imports until July 9.

Support for Ukraine stays robust: 77% deem Russia’s invasion a direct threat, 72% back sanctions, and 62% advocate using frozen Russian assets for reconstruction.

Regional divides persist—Portugal shows 67% EU trust, while France lags at 35%. Younger generations and citizens in Balkan accession countries like Albania (81%) express stronger confidence.

Critics cite bureaucratic hurdles, with nearly half of respondents in a 2023 poll calling EU structures “undemocratic.” Businesses criticize expanding regulations, yet 71% of citizens prefer EU-made military gear to reduce U.S. reliance.

As transatlantic trade tensions simmer, the EU’s role as a stabilizing force gains traction, blending economic integration with security pragmatism.