Methodology overview

In August 2024, 10,659 respondents from five key countries—United States (2,058), South Africa (2,129), Brazil (2,118), India (2,106), and Indonesia (2,041)—participated in a survey to assess their perceptions of major global threats. Respondents completed the survey in local languages, and the fieldwork was managed by Portland's British Polling Council-accredited team.

In addition to polling, desk research was conducted on existing global data to provide a comprehensive understanding of regional trends, expert opinions, and youth perspectives on these critical issues. This research synthesized insights from established sources and reports to identify key patterns in how different regions perceive these threats and the role of leadership in addressing them.

The survey and desk research aimed to:

• Measure public recognition of global threats;
• Understand expectations for action, including government and international cooperation;
• Highlight regional variations and youth perspectives on these issues.
   

Key global findings

Climate change

• Most recognized global threat: Across all markets, 76% of respondents agree that climate change is a significant threat. Concern is slightly lower in the U.S. (62%).
• Call for stronger action: 74% of global respondents want their governments to be more ambitious in addressing climate change. 75% support the creation of a UN Loss & Damage Fund to assist affected communities.
• Hopeful outlook: Despite the severity of the crisis, 64% believe a solution to climate change is achievable.

Nuclear weapons

• Perception of insecurity: 58% of respondents globally view nuclear weapons as a source of insecurity, particularly in countries without nuclear capabilities.
• Support for disarmament: 69% support total nuclear disarmament, though backing is lower in the U.S. (62%) and India (66%).
• Rising concerns: Increased access to nuclear weapons, both by state and non-state actors, is a top concern.

Pandemics

• Manageable but significant: While 71% of respondents see pandemics as a significant threat, they rank it lower compared to climate change and nuclear risks.
• Preparedness: 68% believe the lessons learned from COVID-19 have prepared the world for future pandemics, with 77% supporting an international treaty to manage future pandemics.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Growing threat, low understanding: 60% of respondents see AI as a significant threat, but 29% report having limited or no knowledge about AI risks.
• Concerns about automation: 81% are worried about job losses due to automation, while 80% fear AI-driven cyberattacks.
• Governance support: 65% support increased international governance of AI.

Regional highlights from desk research

Africa

• Youth concerns: In Sub-Saharan Africa, youth are particularly worried about climate change, with 92% supporting increased climate education. Economic downturns and unemployment also rank highly, especially in countries like Nigeria and Kenya.
• AI governance gaps: While many African nations are developing AI strategies, significant gaps remain in AI governance and ethical capacities.

Europe

• AI scepticism in France: 68% of French respondents believe AI development should be paused due to its disruptive impact on work and surveillance.
• Climate concerns in Germany: Only 55% of Germans support stronger protections against extreme weather, reflecting a regional divide on climate action.

Asia

• AI optimism with caution in China: 79% of Chinese respondents think AI development should pause, with high expectations for government regulation.
• Climate action in South Korea: 56% of South Koreans believe AI is a global priority, with strong public support for climate policies focusing on renewable energy.

Youth perspectives

Across regions, young people are emerging as a crucial voice in addressing global challenges:

• Africa: A majority of African youth (75%) view democracy as essential but advocate for a uniquely African form of governance that addresses local needs. They express high concern about economic instability and unemployment.
• Latin America: Youth in Brazil and El Salvador are critical of their governments' climate efforts, with 59% considering relocation due to climate change.
• Asia: In Taiwan, younger respondents (30 and under) are particularly worried about AI, with 55% supporting a government-imposed moratorium on AI development.