Eurobarometer surveyed a sample of EU citizens on a wide range of issues. For example, the latest survey released today shows that two-thirds of Europeans (66%) use social media every day to get information on current affairs or politics. Against this backdrop, “Europeans indicate as top priorities to tackle false or misleading information, tougher sanctions for illegal online content (44%), and stronger rules for platforms (40%), followed by clear labelling of AI-generated or manipulated content (38%), a minimum age threshold for social media access (37%), and greater investment in media literacy and independent fact-checking (29%)”. On the other hand, “Europeans also feel attached to the key elements of democracy”. According to the survey’s findings, freedom of speech and expression (34%), free and fair elections (32%), and respect for the rule of law and fundamental rights (31%) top the Europeans’ list of the most important elements of a democratic society. “Fighting corruption (28%), transparency and accountability of political leaders alongside an independent justice system (26%), and citizen participation in public debate and decision-making (22%) are also cited as key pillars”. A strong majority of Europeans (68%) agree that the EU “should strengthen its capacity to defend itself autonomously against potential external threats”.