Austrian majority supports EU professional army and defense union

A Gallup poll commissioned by the Austrian Foreign Ministry reveals that a majority of Austrians support increased military cooperation within the European Union. According to the survey, 60 percent of respondents view a European professional army positively, while three-quarters favor the concept of a European defense union and joint procurement processes.

Support is highest among young people aged 16 to 30, with 82 percent expressing positive views toward a defense union and 85 percent favoring joint procurement, such as airspace surveillance. Men also showed higher levels of support than women. The 46 to 60 age demographic was the most cautious, though 60 percent still viewed a defense union favorably.

Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger stated that the results support her calls for closer EU defense cooperation, arguing that joint planning and procurement are not contradictions to national neutrality but are essential for Europe's future ability to defend itself independently.