Plenary Insights – May 2026 

Selection of Eurobarometer data in relation to the key topics of the plenary session:

• European Order of Merit: According to the newly published Standard Eurobarometer Spring 2026, three quarters of EU citizens (75%) feel that they are citizens of the EU. This represents a two-percentage-point increase since autumn 2025, bringing the figure back to the highest level on record. This feeling has increased by 13 pp over the last 16 years. The younger the respondents are, the more widespread the feeling of being a citizen of the EU. Democracy and the rule of law, culture and values are the three subjects respondents identify as topics that most foster a feeling of community among EU citizens. (Standard Eurobarometer Autumn 2025)
• Crises in the Middle East: With 25% of mentions, the conflict in the Middle East is the most important issue at EU level, after a 16-percentage point increase since autumn 2025. It is followed by the international situation (23%) and by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine (20%). Rising prices, inflation and cost of living, mentioned by 17% of respondents (+1 pp), is in fourth position. Energy supply and security and defence are tied for fifth place, each mentioned by 15% of respondents. (Standard Eurobarometer Spring 2026)
• Addressing the gender care gap: 38% of EU citizens agree with the statement ‘The most important role of a woman is to take care of her home and family’. There are significant differences between Member States, with levels of agreement ranging from 10% in Denmark to 74% in Bulgaria. (Eurobarometer on Gender stereotypes)
• Comprehensive AI strategy for EU trade: 85% of citizens consider it important to ensure that European companies can grow and become globally competitive. 83% insist that the development of AI technologies must ensure they respect European rights and values. (Eurobarometer on the Digital Decade 2025)