Cyprus tops EU in demand for stronger European protection during crises

New Eurobarometer findings published on Saturday showed that 90 per cent of people in Cyprus believe the European Union should play a greater role in protecting the public from global crises, the highest level of support recorded among member states.

Across the EU 66 per cent of respondents want stronger action from the bloc to respond to security threats, economic shocks and other international challenges.

In total 89 per cent of Europeans say member states should be more united to face global challenges while 86 per cent support a stronger EU voice at the international level.

EU citizens also continue to view membership positively, with 62 per cent describing it positively.

Security concerns dominate public opinion across the bloc, with seventy-two per cent of respondents say they are highly worried about conflicts and wars near the EU while 67 per cent express concern about terrorism.

Natural disasters linked to climate change and cyber-attacks from non-EU countries also rank among the top fears.

Respondents also raised strong concerns about developments in the digital sphere.

Around 69 per cent say they are worried about disinformation while 68 per cent fear misleading content generated by artificial intelligence and threats to the protection of personal data online.

When asked about priorities for the European Parliament, those polled place inflation and the rising cost of living first followed by economic growth and job creation.

Europeans say the parliament should focus above all on safeguarding peace, strengthening democracy and protecting human rights within the EU and internationally.