Kathrine Frich
A majority believes the death toll could surpass that of the Second World War.
A majority believes the death toll could surpass that of the Second World War.
A recent YouGov poll has revealed that a substantial number of Americans and Western Europeans believe World War III could erupt within the next ten years.
Rising tensions with Russia are seen as the most likely trigger for such a devastating event, according to the survey conducted across six major Western nations.
Nuclear Weapons at the Forefront of Worry
Between 68% and 76% of respondents said that if a new global war were to break out, nuclear weapons would likely be used.
Even more concerning, a majority believed the death toll could surpass that of the Second World War, with some fearing that most of the global population could perish.
Confidence in National Defences Is Low
Despite fears of involvement in a future war, many Western Europeans express low confidence in their military’s ability to protect them.
While 89% of Britons expect the UK to be involved, only 41% think their armed forces could defend the nation.
By contrast, 71% of Americans trust the U.S. military to shield them.
Russia Seen as Primary Threat
Respondents overwhelmingly cited Russia as the biggest risk factor for starting a new world war, 72% to 82% across Western Europe, and 69% in the U.S.
Islamic terrorism was the next most cited threat.
Surprisingly, many also viewed the U.S. itself as a potential destabilizing force: 53% of French and 55% of Germans considered tensions with Washington a moderate or major risk to peace.
Historical Awareness Remains High
Despite generational change, World War II remains a key touchstone. Large majorities believe its lessons are still relevant and must be taught.
Around 82% to 90% say WWII should continue to be part of school curricula, especially its causes and the atrocities committed during the Nazi regime.
Fears of History Repeating Itself
A troubling number of respondents believe crimes similar to those committed in Nazi Germany could happen again either in their own countries or elsewhere in the West.
Nearly half of Germans believe such acts are possible domestically, while a majority of Americans think similar atrocities could occur in the U.S.
Who Deserves Credit for Defeating the Nazis?
Public opinion varies dramatically depending on nationality.
Between 40% and 52% of respondents in the six countries credit the U.S. most for defeating Hitler, while 17% to 28% say the Soviet Union played the lead role.
In the UK, 41% say Britain did the most, an opinion not widely shared outside the country.
Germany’s Reckoning With Its Past
While nearly half of Germans believe their country has done a good job addressing its WWII legacy, just 24% believe political leaders have struck the right balance.
Nearly as many think Germany’s deep historical awareness has made it hesitant to act firmly on modern challenges.
NATO and the UN Still Trusted
When it comes to maintaining peace since 1945, NATO leads in public confidence, with 52% to 66% saying the alliance has made a major contribution.
The United Nations is also credited with a meaningful role, and the EU is recognise by up to 56% of respondents as a peacekeeping force on the continent.