Norway Fears War. Global Uncertainty Is Growing
A new study shows a high level of concern among Norwegians about war and conflicts. The international situation is causing the greatest anxiety among women and older people.
Norwegians are concerned not only about Russian aggression or conflicts in the Middle East, but also about global uncertainty caused, among other things, by the stance of the US authorities.
/zdjęcie poglądowe, U.S. Army photo, Sgt. Alexander Rector
Three out of four Norwegians declare concern about wars and armed conflicts. More than half expect the number of conflicts to increase over the next three years. The results come from a survey commissioned by Norad (the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation). The topic of conflicts and their prevention was at the center of this year's Norad 2026 conference.
Social Concerns and Survey Results
76 percent of respondents fear wars and conflicts. The highest level of anxiety was recorded among women and older people. 55 percent of those surveyed believe the world will face more conflicts in the next three years. The survey covered 1,200 people in Norway.
Seven out of ten respondents believe that Norway should strengthen its defense capabilities. Among those over 60, this view is shared by 83 percent. Among people under 29, the figure is 57 percent. Meanwhile, 85 percent of respondents point to the great importance of international cooperation in resolving conflicts.
Seven out of ten respondents believe that Norway should strengthen its defense capabilities. Among those over 60, this view is shared by 83 percent. Among people under 29, the figure is 57 percent. Meanwhile, 85 percent of respondents point to the great importance of international cooperation in resolving conflicts.
In 2024 alone, 61 interstate conflicts were recorded in 36 countries – the highest number since 1946.Photo: Adobe Stock, standard license
All Due to Global Conflicts and the Scale of Crises
According to the latest data used by Norad, at the beginning of 2026, 239 million people needed urgent humanitarian aid and protection. In 2025, 831 million people, or one-sixth of the world's population, were at risk of conflict. Over the past 12 months, more than 240,000 people have died as a result of conflict-related violence.
More than 117 million people have been forced to leave their homes. About 520 million children live in conflict zones or are fleeing from them. The data also indicate a 4,000 percent increase in the use of drones in military operations since 2020. In addition, 90 percent of explosion victims in cities are civilians.
More than 117 million people have been forced to leave their homes. About 520 million children live in conflict zones or are fleeing from them. The data also indicate a 4,000 percent increase in the use of drones in military operations since 2020. In addition, 90 percent of explosion victims in cities are civilians.
The issue of conflict prevention was one of the main topics at the Norad-konferansen 2026 in Oslo. The event was attended by representatives of international organizations, conflict researchers, and activists from many countries. A report by the PRIO institute on the long-term effects of conflicts was also presented. The data show that conflicts today last longer and involve an increasing number of civilians.
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