EU Politics Outlook
June 2026
Top issues for the EU public
Most important issues facing their countries, % of citizens citing each — with change vs. Autumn 2025.
▲ rose since Autumn 2025 ▼ fell multiple responses allowed, so shares do not sum to 100%.
Source: Standard Eurobarometer 105, Spring 2026.
Global mood trends
Share who agree that "compared to today, the next generation will be better off." Higher = more optimistic. France lowest at just 9%.
Optimistic (≥40%) Mixed (20–39%) Pessimistic (<20%)
Source: 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer Global Report.
Popularity of global leaders
Net favourability — share viewing the leader favourably minus those viewing them unfavourably.
Positive = net favourable; negative = net unfavourable. Macron and Merz are the least popular leaders in the set — both at −57. Months in office as of June 2026 shown below each name.
Source: Morning Consult, April 2026