Rising geopolitical tensions are driving up anxiety across the EU, with citizens — including those in Cyprus — demanding stronger and more unified European action, according to the European Parliament’s latest Eurobarometer.
Cypriots reported some of the highest concern levels in the bloc: 80% worry about armed conflicts, 77% about terrorism, 80% about climate‑related disasters, 70% about cyberattacks and 86% about irregular migration. EU‑wide, armed conflicts near the bloc’s borders (72%) and terrorism (67%) top the list.
More than half of Europeans (52%) are pessimistic about the world’s future; in Cyprus the figure rises to 58%. Pessimism about the EU’s future stands at 39% across the bloc and 48% in Cyprus. Personal outlooks remain far more positive, with 76% of Europeans — and 75% of Cypriots — optimistic about their own future.
Concerns over information integrity are also high. Disinformation troubles 69% of EU citizens and 82% of Cypriots. Similar levels are recorded for hate speech, AI‑generated false content, data protection and threats to free expression.
Support for a more assertive EU is overwhelming.
Eighty‑nine percent of Europeans — and 95% of Cypriots — want member states to act with greater unity.
A stronger EU voice internationally is backed by 86% across the bloc and 94% in Cyprus.
Majorities also support more EU resources and a bigger role in citizen security.
Europeans rank defense and security as the top priority for strengthening the EU’s global position.
In Cyprus, defense leads as well, followed by education and demographic and migration issues.
Inflation and the cost of living remain the leading internal concern for EU citizens (41%), followed by the economy and jobs.
In Cyprus, economic issues, public health and migration feature prominently. One‑third of Cypriots expect their living standards to worsen in the next five years.
Despite worries, the EU’s image remains broadly positive: 49% of Europeans and 42% of Cypriots view the Union favorably. Support for EU membership stands at 62% across the bloc and 65% in Cyprus.