ISTANBUL

Europeans view respect for democracy and economic power as the European Union's main strengths, according to the latest Flash Eurobarometer survey on "EU challenges and priorities" issued Friday.

The survey revealed that respect for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law topped the list of the bloc’s main strengths at 36%, followed by its economic, industrial, and trading power at 31%. Good relationships and solidarity among member states ranked third, with 28%.

Europeans continue to view democracy and economic power as the EU's main strengths, according to the latest Flash Eurobarometer survey.

When asked about values, more than half of Europeans said the EU, rather than other countries, best embodies respect for fundamental rights and values as well as freedom of speech and expression, each at 55%, along with social equality and welfare at 52%.

The survey found that 47% of Europeans see the war in Ukraine as the current main challenge the bloc is facing.

As for global challenges facing the EU’s future, 41% of respondents cited conflicts around the world, followed by irregular migration at 35%, and climate change and environmental issues at 31%.

The fourth most cited issue, mentioned by 30% of participants, was the risk that the EU could lose its voice and influence in the world.