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In a recent Eurobarometer survey published by the European Parliament, Spanish citizens have demonstrated significantly higher levels of concern about international conflicts and digital threats compared to their European counterparts, while simultaneously maintaining strong personal optimism about their futures.
The comprehensive survey, conducted in autumn last year with over 26,000 participants across Europe, reveals that 84% of Spaniards express concern about conflicts and wars near European borders—12 percentage points higher than the EU average of 72%. Similarly, 80% of Spanish respondents highlight terrorism as a major concern, compared to 67% across the EU.
This heightened vigilance extends to digital issues as well. Spain registers some of the highest concern levels in the Union regarding online threats, with 82% expressing serious concern about hate speech (14 points above the European average) and 85% worried about threats to freedom of expression (nearly 20 points higher than the EU average).
Despite these anxieties about external threats, Spaniards maintain remarkable personal optimism. The survey shows that 81% of Spanish respondents feel optimistic about their personal and family futures—surpassing both the European average of 76% and their own outlook regarding the future of the world, the EU, or Spain itself.
Spain stands alone in prioritizing education and research as the primary area for EU focus to strengthen its global position. While 43% of Spaniards believe education should be the priority, only 25% of Europeans share this view. Conversely, 40% of Europeans across the bloc prioritize defense and security measures, compared to just 27% of Spaniards.
There is consensus between Spain and the broader EU in ranking economic competitiveness and industry as the second priority for the European Union, with energy independence and infrastructure also receiving similar importance ratings across the board.
Public health emerges as an exceptionally important issue for Spanish respondents, with 56% citing it as a priority for the European Parliament—a significant increase of thirteen points from the previous survey and substantially higher than the EU average of 32%. Spaniards also place greater emphasis on economic support and job creation (50% versus the EU’s 35%) and fighting poverty and social exclusion (30% versus 28%).
Economic concerns remain prominent across the continent. Approximately 42% of Spaniards and 41% of Europeans overall cite inflation, rising prices, and cost of living as major issues requiring parliamentary attention.
A notable divergence appears on defense and security matters, where only 15% of Spaniards believe these should be European Parliament priorities—seven points lower than in the previous survey and significantly below the European average of 34%.
The data reflects a widespread desire for a more proactive European Union in crisis management, with 79% of Spanish citizens believing the bloc should play a more important role in protecting against global risks and security threats. Support for greater unity is nearly universal in Spain, with 95% believing EU countries should be more unified in addressing current challenges.
Regarding institutional confidence, 77% of Spaniards believe the European Parliament should take on a more prominent role, compared to 59% across Europe. However, only 49% of both Spanish and European respondents report having a positive image of the Parliament itself. Support increases when considering the European Union broadly, with 72% of Spaniards and 62% of Europeans acknowledging that EU membership has benefited their countries.
The survey illuminates Spain’s distinct perspective within the European Union—combining heightened concern about external threats with strong personal optimism and a preference for educational investment over security measures.
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8 Comments
It’s intriguing that despite their heightened worries, Spaniards remain the most optimistic in Europe about their personal futures. Perhaps this speaks to a cultural outlook that sees challenges as surmountable.
Interesting to see Spaniards more concerned about global conflicts and digital threats than the average European. Speaks to the geopolitical challenges facing the region. Yet their personal optimism is quite remarkable – a testament to the resilience of the Spanish people.
The data points to a Spanish public that is keenly aware of the challenges facing Europe, from military conflicts to online harms. Yet their personal optimism is a heartening sign – a reminder that even in turbulent times, hope can prevail.
The survey results highlight the complex interplay between global instability, digital threats, and individual outlook. Spain seems to be navigating these dynamics in a thoughtful way, balancing concerns with a sense of optimism.
Well said. Maintaining that positive mindset in the face of significant geopolitical and technological disruptions is an impressive feat. Speaks to the resilience of the Spanish people.
The high levels of concern over issues like hate speech and freedom of expression in Spain mirror broader trends across Europe. Navigating the digital landscape and managing misinformation is clearly a major priority for citizens.
You’re right, these digital threats are a growing concern for many Europeans. Finding the right balance between addressing harmful content and preserving free speech is a tricky challenge for policymakers.
Curious to see how the Spanish government and civil society will address these concerns around conflicts, misinformation, and digital threats. Their proactive approach could offer lessons for the rest of Europe.