Portugal Tops EU Positivity: Discover What Young Citizens Think About the Union!

Eurobarometer Insights

According to the latest Eurobarometer survey, Portugal stands out as the country with the most positive perception of the European Union. A remarkable 75% of Portuguese citizens view the EU positively, compared to the European average of 50%. Only 5% of the population holds a negative view.

Youth Perspective

Curiously, the most favorable views come from the 15 to 24 age group, where 93% express a positive image of the EU, while only 7% have a negative outlook. In contrast, 67% of those over 55 years old view the EU positively, with 26% dissenting.

Key Concerns for Europeans

When asked about priorities, 43% of Europeans believe the European Parliament should focus on inflation, rising prices, and cost of living. Following this, concerns regarding defense and security, poverty alleviation, and job creation follow.

Interestingly, public health support is the fifth priority for EU citizens, but for Portuguese, it ranks as the top priority, with 58% advocating for increased focus on this area—more than double the European average.

Age-Specific Priorities

• Young Portuguese (15-24 years) prioritize public health.
• Citizens aged 40-54 focus on inflation and cost of living first, then health.
• Those aged 25-39 prioritize economic support and job creation, with health coming third.

EU Values and Global Role

Regarding EU values, peace is paramount for citizens, followed by democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression. 76% of Portuguese respondents believe the EU should play a more significant role in protecting citizens against global crises, significantly higher than the European average.

Future Outlook on Quality of Life

In terms of quality of life, 51% of Europeans expect no changes in the next five years. However, in Portugal, there is a growing pessimism, with 35% believing quality of life will decline. Among the youth, opinions are nearly split on whether quality of life will improve or worsen.

EU Membership Benefits

An impressive 74% of Europeans feel their country has benefited from EU membership, with 91% of Portuguese agreeing. The primary reason cited by 46% of Portuguese is that the EU has contributed to economic growth, providing a stronger voice and more job opportunities.

*Note: This Eurobarometer survey is based on 26,354 face-to-face interviews conducted across 27 EU member states from January 9 to February 4, targeting citizens aged 15 and older.