A recent survey conducted by Ipsos in April, with 1,004 participants, reveals that nearly four-fifths of Czechs believe the world is facing its greatest uncertainty since 1989.
The feeling of instability is particularly strong among older generations but is also widespread among younger people aged 18-34.
This sense of uncertainty has profound implications for the future. Only 32% of respondents are optimistic that future generations will live in a better world.
When asked about their expectations for the future, people aged 24 to 44 expressed the most pessimistic outlook.
“The study confirms some alarming data, such as the historically lowest birth rate that the Czech Republic experienced in 2024. A significant portion of the population is living in a state of great uncertainty, which often has global causes and has been ongoing for several years. At the same time, people are thinking in a much shorter-term perspective and are planning less for many years ahead,” said Michal Kormanyak from Ipsos.
The survey also highlighted specific concerns: 54% of Czechs are worried about economic instability, while 34% fear international tensions. Almost a third of respondents expressed concern about Europe’s internal security, particularly related to migration, a sentiment more common among the older generation. In contrast, younger people are more focused on the potential loss of freedoms, democracy, and the long-term effects of climate change.
In response to these concerns, a strong majority of Czechs, 85%, want political parties to cooperate on key issues related to security and foreign policy. Additionally, 63% of respondents believe the Czech Republic should maintain its membership in both the EU and NATO.
