A recent Eurobarometer survey reveals that 83% of European citizens view science and technology positively, with 67% acknowledging their role in enhancing daily life, but an in depth analysis reveals a more complicated depiction of the role of science and scientific communication in society.
What is the Eurobarometer?
The Eurobarometer is a series of public opinion surveys conducted on behalf of the European Commission to assess attitudes and perceptions of European citizens on various topics, including science, technology, climate change, and social issues. Established in 1974, it provides valuable insights into public awareness, knowledge, concerns, and expectations, helping policymakers shape evidence-based strategies. The surveys are conducted regularly across EU Member States, using a representative sample to capture diverse perspectives. By tracking trends over time, the Eurobarometer serves as a key tool for understanding public engagement with science and informing communication and policy initiatives at both national and EU levels.
Key findings on public perception of science and technology
According to the survey results, EU citizens seem to have strongly positive views on most technologies currently being developed with renewable energy (87%) and information and communication technologies (79%) at the top and Artificial Intelligence (55%) at the bottom end of the spectrum.
However, challenges persist, as many feel that the benefits of scientific innovation and technology are not equally distributed. In fact, concerns about potential threats to human rights remain, with 77% of respondents agreeing that science and technology should consider the needs of all groups of people. This finding speaks even louder today, on UNESCO’s International Day of Digital Learning, as digital technology plays a crucial role in expanding access to education. Disparities in access to digital tools and digital literacy remain key challenges, reinforcing the need for ethical and inclusive innovation to ensure that technological progress benefits everyone.
Survey participants also widely acknowledge the role of government and public organisations in holding private companies accountable, ensuring equitable access to technology and making sure it does not pose a risk to human rights.
Insights for the communication of EU research and innovation projects
By providing key insights into public perceptions of science and technology, the findings of the Eurobarometer survey allow science communicators to "gauge the pressure" on certain topics and calibrate their efforts to provide sound, evidence-based information on the issues that truly matter to the public. This Eurobarometer specifically points the spotlight on the need for EU science and innovation to address inclusivity, accessibility, and ethical considerations. Also, with the public recognising the role of governments and public institutions in ensuring fair and responsible technological development, it is ever more imperative for EU-funded projects to emphasize the ways in which they drive positive societal impact, inform science-based policy making and corporate governance.
By addressing these concerns in their outreach strategies, projects can foster greater public trust, enhance visibility, and demonstrate their contribution to a more equitable and sustainable future.
