48% of Europeans Want Increased Farmer Subsidies
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A European Commission Eurobarometer survey reveals that the vast majority of EU public opinion sees food supply security as a strategic priority and demands increased farmer support.
Public Opinion Expectations in European Agriculture
The latest Eurobarometer survey, conducted by the European Commission between May and June 2026, comprehensively outlines EU citizens' perspectives on agricultural policies. The study, analyzed by Agricultural Policy Expert Ergin Kahveci, involved 26,456 participants from diverse social and demographic backgrounds across 27 EU member states. The research findings clearly indicate a strong public consensus on the sustainability of rural development and agricultural activities.
Food Supply and Strategic Importance
According to Eurobarometer data, 95% of Europeans consider agriculture and rural areas extremely important for Europe's future. An overwhelming majority of 93% of participants deem it essential to always ensure a stable food supply across the EU. These high percentages demonstrate that European public opinion embraces agriculture not merely as an economic activity, but as a strategic sector that forms the fundamental basis of food security.
Demand for Increased Farmer Support
The survey results revealed that 71% of participants are aware of the direct support provided to farmers through the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). While 55% of participants find the current level of financial support adequate, future expectations point towards an increase. 48% of Europeans want to see an increase in the EU financial resources allocated to farmers over the next decade; the European Commission notes this trend as a relative majority.
Eurobarometer Agricultural and Food Public Opinion Indicators
European Commission May-June 2026 Data
- Future importance of agriculture and rural areas
- 95%
- Demand for stable food supply
- 93%
- Awareness of CAP support
- 71%
- Those who find current support appropriate
- 55%
- Those who want an increase in support in the next 10 years
- 48%