Spaniards Show Heightened Concern About Security Threats While Maintaining Personal Optimism
A new European Parliament Eurobarometer survey reveals striking contrasts in Spanish public opinion compared to other EU citizens. Conducted in autumn 2023 with over 26,000 participants across member states, the data shows Spaniards maintain exceptional personal optimism despite heightened concerns about geopolitical and digital threats.
Security Concerns Above EU Average
84% of Spaniards express concern about conflicts near EU borders – 12 points higher than the EU average (72%). Terrorism worries also exceed the bloc’s average (80% vs 67%). This vigilance extends to digital spaces, where Spain reports the Union’s highest levels of concern:
- 82% worried about hate speech (+14 points above EU average)
- 85% fear threats to freedom of expression (+20 points)
Remarkable Personal Optimism
Despite these concerns, 81% of Spaniards remain optimistic about their personal and family futures – exceeding both the EU average (76%) and their own confidence in global/EU/national prospects. This resilience mirrors Spain’s 2023 economic recovery trends and declining unemployment rates.
Diverging Policy Priorities
The survey reveals fundamental differences in how Spaniards want the EU to allocate resources:
| Policy Area | Spanish Priority | EU Average Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Education & Research | 43% (Top Priority) | 25% |
| Defense & Security | 27% | 40% |
Parliamentary Expectations
Spanish respondents want the European Parliament to prioritize differently than other Europeans:
- 56% prioritize public health (+13 points since last survey, vs 32% EU average)
- 50% emphasize job creation (vs 35% EU)
- Only 15% prioritize defense – half the EU average (34%)
Overwhelming Support for EU Unity
The survey confirms strong Spanish faith in European cooperation:
- 95% believe member states should show greater unity
- 79% want stronger EU protection against global risks
- 77% support expanding Parliament’s role (vs 59% EU average)
Despite only 49% holding a positive Parliament image, 72% of Spaniards believe EU membership benefits Spain – 10 points above the European average. This paradox highlights how citizens distinguish between EU institutions and the bloc’s fundamental value.
Source: European Parliament Eurobarometer 100, Autumn 2023. Methodology: 26,411 face-to-face interviews across 27 EU countries.
Original reporting: Majorca Daily Bulletin
Images Credit: www.majorcadailybulletin.com