Survey: Concerns of the French about their country's security - Low confidence in the EU's defense role
Eight out of ten French citizens are worried about their country's security and only about four in ten believe the EU can protect them, according to a recent survey.
A recent survey by the European Commission reveals that 80% of French citizens are concerned about their national security, reflecting a notable lack of confidence in the European Union's defense capabilities. With only 40% of respondents believing in the EU's ability to provide protection, France ranks among the countries with the lowest trust in Brussels' military role. This survey highlights broader apprehensions regarding safety within Europe, where 68% of Europeans express worries about various threats.
The survey comes just as the Munich Security Conference commences, gathering around 70 leaders from various nations to address pressing global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and significant disruptions in global trade. Countries such as the Netherlands, Denmark, Cyprus, and Germany also report high levels of concern about security threats, indicating that this sentiment is not isolated to France but is felt across the continent.
The findings pose critical implications for European defense strategies and political discourse, especially in light of President Emmanuel Macron's calls for a more unified and robust EU defense posture. As discussions unfold at the Munich conference, the emphasis on the necessity of cooperative defense mechanisms could reshape perceptions and policies regarding EU security in the future.