The number of thefts in European homes and businesses has significantly decreased. According to new data from Eurostat, this figure has dropped by more than 35 percent over the past decade, from 1.2 million cases in 2014 to 700,000 cases in 2024. This statistic includes both residential and commercial properties, and despite this positive news, Europe remains a battleground between thieves and citizens and business owners.
Worrying Statistics in Austria and Sweden
Austria has recorded the highest theft rate in the European Union in 2024, with 700 cases per 100,000 people. Following Austria, Sweden with 601 cases and Luxembourg with 568 cases rank next. In contrast, Lithuania has reported the lowest theft rate among EU countries, with 24 cases per 100,000 people. Additionally, Lithuania has experienced the highest reduction in thefts, with a significant 79 percent decrease compared to 2014.
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European Efforts to Improve Security
European citizens are increasingly equipping themselves with security technologies to combat theft threats. According to statistics, the production of security systems in the European Union has increased from 30.1 million units in 2015 to 68.3 million units in 2025. Ireland, as one of the leading countries in this area, has reported that the use of home security technologies, including alarms and CCTV cameras, has risen from 17 percent in 2022 to 30 percent in 2024.
In total, around 20 million alarm systems have been installed for private properties and small businesses in the European Union, the UK, Switzerland, and Norway. However, this figure still seems low compared to the North American market, where the concentration of alarm systems is three times higher.
According to the published statistics, Spain has seen a 21 percent decrease in thefts and France a 23 percent decrease, putting them in a better position compared to other European countries. However, it is also noteworthy that France still experiences the highest number of thefts, with over 300,000 cases annually.
These developments represent a serious concern for European citizens, who must be more prepared than ever to ensure their security. It seems that preventive measures and attention to security technologies could play a key role in reducing these statistics.
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