A recent Eurobarometer poll reveals that just 32% of Greeks feel that core European Union values—such as fundamental rights, democracy, and the rule of law—are well-protected in their country. This figure is significantly lower than the EU-wide average, where 66% of respondents feel confident that these values are upheld. Among all EU nations, Greeks reported the lowest level of trust in how these values are safeguarded in their country.
Justice, rights and values, European Commission, October 2024
While more than half of Europeans say they feel well-informed about the rule of law in their own country, only 38% of Greek respondents said the same. The highest level of awareness was reported in the Netherlands, while Greece and Bulgaria saw the lowest levels.
In terms of awareness of EU legislation protecting individual rights, Greeks also reported being the least informed across several areas.
For example, Greeks demonstrated low awareness of EU laws on racial equality. In contrast, respondents in Finland (88%) were the most aware, followed closely by the Netherlands (84%). Bulgaria (55%), Greece, and Poland (both 63%) ranked lowest in this area.
Similarly Greeks reported a low awareness of legislation that governs work life balance for parents and carers, including the right to paternity leave. Respondents in Finland (89%) were most aware of the work life balance legislation, least aware of it were respondents in Greece (50%), Bulgaria (51%), and Poland (61%).
In addition, Greece had the lowest level of awareness regarding EU legislation on victims’ rights, which establishes minimum standards for the rights, support, and protection of crime victims. Only 16% of Greeks said they were aware of this legislation. Likewise, only 16% of respondents in Greece reported being familiar with the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.
