Euroscope 12th wave

Introduction

Polling Europe‘s June 2026 Euroscope report, based on 5,458 online interviews across the EU, offers a timely snapshot of public opinion on key geopolitical, economic, and social issues.

I. Geopolitical Landscape: Conflict and Security Perceptions

• U.S.-Israeli Operations in Iran: A majority (56%) of Europeans view U.S.-Israeli military operations in Iran as “Not justified,” with Southern Europe and Italy showing the strongest opposition. Support is higher among EPP and Renew Europe voters.
• Concerns from U.S. Military Action: The primary concerns are “Higher gas and fuel prices” (92%), “The war expanding” (84%), and “Terrorist attacks” (70%). These concerns vary geographically, with Italy leading on fuel prices and Spain/Germany on terrorist attacks.
• EU Sanctions on Israeli Settlers: A clear majority (53%) “Agree” with EU sanctions on Israeli settlers due to rising violence, particularly in Italy and Poland. S&D and Greens voters are most supportive, while Patriots voters show the least agreement.

II. EU Governance and Social Policies

• Confidence in the New European Commission: Less than half (47%) of Europeans express “Confidence” in the new European Commission, a slight recovery from a previous low. Confidence is highest in CEE and Poland, and lowest in France and Germany. Political groups like S&D, Greens, and Renew Europe show the highest confidence.
• EU Return Hubs for Migrants: A slim majority (52%) are “Favorable” to EU return hubs for migrants, with Italy and Spain showing higher support. EPP, ECR, and ESN voters are most favorable.

III. Economic Outlook and the Energy Crisis

• Economic Situation: Europeans are divided on their personal economic situation (51% “Satisfied”), but a significant 62% believe their country’s economic direction is “wrong.” Satisfaction is highest in Spain and Poland, lowest in France and Germany.
• Unemployment and Inflation Forecasts: A majority anticipate an “Increase” in both unemployment (67%) and inflation (76%), with France and Germany leading these pessimistic forecasts.
• Energy Crisis Impact: The energy crisis “already has an impact” on 72% of Europeans, with Spain and Southern Europe reporting the highest current effects. Vacation plans are impacted for 40%, leading to postponements, changes, or cancellations.

IV. Leisure and Culture: The FIFA World Cup

• World Cup Interest: 67% of Europeans plan to “follow the World Cup,” with Spain and Germany showing the highest interest.
• Preferred Winner: If their own country doesn’t win, 40% prefer “A European team,” while 37% are undecided.