The record high level of trust in the European Union in 18 years. This is reported by a Eurobarometer survey published today. 52% of Europeans trust the EU, with the level of trust being highest among young people aged 15-24: 59%.
Bulgarians, for their part, also trust the EU. 53% answered that they trust the institution, 35% - no, and 12% do not know. At the other extreme, however, is trust in national power structures. Only 21% of those surveyed answered that they trust the National Assembly and 27% trust the government.
The second 18-year record reports 52% support for the European Commission among the Europeans surveyed. Three quarters of respondents (75%) say they feel like citizens of the EU - the highest level in more than two decades. In addition, 62% say they are optimistic about the future of the EU. Over half of Bulgarians surveyed also have a positive attitude.
The Eurobarometer survey recorded the highest ever support for the euro in both the EU (74%) and the euro area (83%). As for perceptions of the state of the European economy, 44% of respondents find it good and 48% - bad, with 43% of citizens believing that the economic situation in Europe will remain stable over the next 12 months.
The poll reports that in the current geopolitical context, Europeans would like to see a stronger and more decisive EU through a common defense and security policy. 81% support the common defense and security policy - the highest score since 2004. At the same time, 78% are concerned about the EU's defense and security over the next five years.
The survey shows that peace remains the most representative European value, followed by democracy and respect for the rule of law, and fundamental rights.