Seven out of ten EU citizens believe corruption exists, according to the perception figure cited in the debate.

Omissions

• The most recent data available before the session date (7 October 2026) is the 2026 Eurobarometer survey (SP573), published June 2026, which reports 71% — slightly above the '7 out of 10' stated by the MEP.
• The figure refers to the share who believe corruption is 'widespread in their country', not a general statement that 'there is corruption'; the perception varies widely between Member States.

Sources

• PrimaryEurobarometer – Citizens' attitudes towards corruption in the EU in 2026 (SP573)Just over seven in ten Europeans (71%) consider that corruption is widespread in their country. Almost seven in ten Europeans (69%) agree that high-level corruption is a problem.
• PrimaryEU Open Data Portal – Special Eurobarometer SP573: Citizens' attitudes towards corruption in the EUJust over seven in ten Europeans (71%) consider that corruption is widespread in their country. Almost seven in ten Europeans (69%) agree that high-level corruption is a problem.
• PrimaryEurobarometer – Citizens' attitudes towards corruption in the EU in 202569% of Europeans believe that corruption is widespread in their country. 51% believe that corruption is widespread among political parties. Fieldwork Date: January 2025 - February 2025; Publication Date: July 2025.