Fears of a Global Conflict Rise Amid Global Tensions
A new poll in Portugal shows that the potential for a third global conflict is the nation’s biggest fear for 2025. Amid rising political instability and military tensions, a large portion of the Portuguese population is concerned about the possibility of widespread war. The survey, conducted by Pitagórica for TVI, CNN Portugal, TSF, JN, and O Jogo, reveals that more than one in three Portuguese citizens are particularly worried about World War III.
35% of those interviewed have a World War III as their biggest fear for the year that is now beginning.
Economic Worries Follow Close Behind
Along with war fears, economic instability is also a major concern. A global conflict could trigger severe economic fallout, leading to worries about recession, unemployment, and rising inflation. Many Portuguese are fearful that these issues may worsen if global tensions escalate.
42% consider it at least likely that the next president of the United States will contribute to the creation of a new global crisis. Recent statements such as those made about Greenland, Canada or Panama have not helped to calm tempers.
Biggest Fears of the Portuguese for 2025
These are the top concerns of Portuguese for 2025. It is reassuring to note that 9% are somehow fearless.
War/world war | 35% |
Economic crisis/recession | 9% |
Personal health problems | 6% |
Unemployment | 6% |
Collapse of the SUS | 6% |
Inflation/price rise | 5% |
Others | 24% |
Does not mention any | 9% |
Health and National Health Service Concerns
Health-related issues are also prominent in the survey. Many Portuguese worry about personal health and the potential collapse of the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), Portugal’s public healthcare system, which they fear may struggle to meet future challenges.
The fieldwork took place between December 28, 2024, and January 5, 2025, with 400 telephone interviews collected, corresponding to a maximum margin of error of +/- 5.00% at a 95.5% confidence level.
The Global Stage: Trump's Return and Russian Provocations
Concerns about war are heightened by Donald Trump’s return to office, with some fearing his leadership could add to instability. Russia’s increasing provocations, tensions on the Korean Peninsula, and China’s ambitions over Taiwan also fuel anxiety over a wider conflict. As the year unfolds, Portuguese citizens appear deeply concerned about immediate and long-term global threats, highlighting widespread uncertainty about the future.
Source: CNN Portugal
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