A Eurobarometer survey has revealed that over half of the European Union’s population believes that bribery is widespread among political parties. The survey, conducted by the European Commission, shows that 69% of EU citizens believe that corruption is widespread in their country, with Greece, Croatia, and Portugal reporting the highest rates at 97%, 92%, and 91%, respectively. Finland and Denmark reported the lowest rates at 21% and 28%, respectively. The poll also highlighted that 51% of respondents do not believe anti-corruption measures are effective, and only 5% think it is ever acceptable to give money for favors. Older age groups are more likely to reject corruption, and men are more likely than women to know someone involved in bribery. The survey emphasized that many citizens lack awareness of how to report corruption, with fewer than half knowing the proper channels. Additionally, nearly half doubt that anti-corruption measures are applied impartially, suggesting a deep-seated lack of trust in institutional efforts to combat the issue.
Among the survey’s key findings, 80% of respondents said it is never acceptable to give money to public services for a favor, with Portugal (98%), France (90%), and Spain (90%) leading that view. Over 70% oppose doing favors in exchange, while only 5% believe it is always acceptable. Roughly three-quarters say giving gifts to get services is never acceptable. The survey also explores perceptions of corruption by institution and region, noting that more than half believe corruption is common among political parties and 46% say it’s widespread among politicians at all levels. Two-thirds of EU citizens say high-level corruption cases are not pursued sufficiently, and more than half consider government anti-corruption efforts ineffective. Nearly half doubt that measures are applied impartially. These findings raise concerns about the effectiveness of current anti-corruption strategies and the need for more transparent and accountable institutions.
The survey further noted that only 5% of respondents reported experiencing or witnessing corruption in the past 12 months, and just one in five of them filed a report. In addition, fewer than half of those surveyed know where to report corruption cases. The survey also shows that men are more likely than women to personally know someone involved in bribery, indicating gender disparities in reporting and awareness. These findings highlight the need for targeted awareness campaigns and improved reporting mechanisms to address corruption more effectively. As the European Union continues to grapple with these challenges, the results of the Eurobarometer survey underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in anti-corruption policies and public transparency initiatives.