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Global Anxieties Revealed: New Gallup Poll Highlights Diverging Concerns

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 8:50 GMT by Toronto Star
      Locales: UNITED STATES, BRAZIL, CANADA, CHINA, GERMANY, FRANCE, UNITED KINGDOM, INDIA, JAPAN, MEXICO

Washington D.C. - February 11th, 2026 - A comprehensive new Gallup poll, surveying residents across 118 countries, paints a revealing picture of global anxieties, and how American concerns subtly, yet significantly, diverge from the rest of the world. While economic pressures are universally felt, the specific weight placed on issues like inflation, corruption, and crime varies dramatically, highlighting the unique socio-political landscapes of different nations.

The study, released today, asked individuals to identify the most pressing problem facing their country. The results confirm that the specter of economic hardship looms large globally. However, a closer examination reveals nuances in how that hardship is perceived and what specific aspects are causing the most distress.

American Exceptionalism in Anxiety?

For Americans, 'the economy' topped the list of concerns at 34%, closely followed by inflation (24%) and, surprisingly, government corruption (17%). This focus on corruption is a notable differentiator. While a considerable portion of the global population prioritizes economic fundamentals, Americans appear to be comparatively more preoccupied with the integrity of their governing institutions. Gallup analysts suggest this reflects ongoing debates surrounding political transparency and accountability within the U.S.

Globally, inflation was the single most frequently cited problem, with 26% of respondents identifying it as their primary concern. Economic instability followed at 14%, with 'the economy' as a broad concern named by 18%. The fact that American concerns about inflation (24%) are below the global average is particularly interesting, given the widely publicized inflationary pressures experienced by the U.S. in recent years. This suggests Americans may be adapting to, or desensitized by, sustained price increases, or perhaps focusing more on broader economic factors like employment and wage growth.

A Global Mosaic of Fears

The Gallup data breaks down anxieties by continent, revealing stark regional differences. In Asia, the economy predictably dominates concerns, followed by inflation and, increasingly, crime. This reflects the rapid economic growth (and associated challenges) in many Asian nations, coupled with ongoing security concerns in certain regions.

Europe, still grappling with the aftershocks of recent geopolitical events and energy crises, prioritizes inflation above all else. Economic stability and crime round out the top three concerns, indicating a focus on preserving existing standards of living and maintaining social order.

Africa, facing persistent developmental challenges, unsurprisingly lists poverty and crime as its most pressing issues, followed by economic instability. The lack of access to basic necessities and high rates of crime present immediate and critical threats to millions.

The Americas, similar to the U.S., show a strong emphasis on inflation and the economy. However, crime and government corruption consistently feature prominently throughout the region, suggesting these issues are pervasive across the continent.

The Rise of Global Economic Anxiety Since 2022

Gallup points out a significant trend: a worldwide increase in concerns related to inflation and economic instability since 2022. This surge corresponds with the period following the COVID-19 pandemic and the onset of the war in Ukraine, both of which triggered significant disruptions to global supply chains and energy markets. The data underscores the interconnectedness of the global economy and the vulnerability of nations to external shocks.

Interestingly, American anxieties around inflation align more closely with those in China than with countries experiencing hyperinflation like Argentina, Turkey, and the Philippines. This further highlights the unique position of the U.S. economy - large, relatively stable, but still susceptible to global economic trends.

Implications and Future Outlook

This poll isn't merely an exercise in comparative statistics; it has crucial implications for policymakers. Understanding the specific concerns of different populations is essential for crafting effective economic policies, addressing social issues, and promoting international stability. The survey also highlights the need for cross-cultural communication and collaboration to tackle shared global challenges. Ignoring regional differences and imposing one-size-fits-all solutions is likely to prove ineffective.

As the world continues to navigate a complex and uncertain economic landscape, tracking these shifting anxieties will be crucial. Future Gallup polls will undoubtedly provide further insights into how global concerns evolve and how nations respond to the challenges that lie ahead.