Japan Views China, the US, and Russia as Top Threats to Global Peace Amid Taiwan Concerns

Survey Highlights Growing Security Fears in Japan

According to Radiotrek — Світ: A recent poll conducted by the Japanese Press Research Institute between July 17 and August 16, 2026, reveals that Japan's population identifies China, the United States, and Russia as the leading dangers to world peace.

• China
• United States
• Russia
• North Korea
• Iran

The findings, released on October 10, 2026, are based on responses from 5,000 Japanese citizens, with 2,676 valid answers analyzed.

According to the data, 32.5% of respondents regard China as a threat to global stability, followed by 26.8% naming the US. Russia ranks third with 18.3%, while North Korea and Iran were seen as threats by 9.1% and 1.9%, respectively. Notably, the proportion of those perceiving the US as a threat has surged by 9.3 percentage points since a similar 2024 survey, which recorded just 6.6%. China's threat perception also increased by 8.2 points, whereas Russia dropped from first to third place in this ranking.

Public Opinion on Global Leaders and Regional Tensions

Moreover, 82.5% of participants expressed negative views regarding the impact of then-US President Donald Trump on international affairs, marking a 3.1 percentage point rise from the previous survey. Concerns about potential escalation around Taiwan are also high, with 76.7% of those surveyed expressing apprehension.

A representative from the Japanese Press Research Institute attributed these sentiments to uncertainties surrounding the US administration's unpredictable policies.

Heightened tensions between China and the United States are fueling worries over security in the Asia-Pacific region, adding crucial context to the survey's outcomes.

The poll underscores a growing sense of unease in Japan about global geopolitical threats, particularly from China and the US. This public sentiment could influence Japan's foreign policy decisions as the nation seeks to safeguard its interests amid increasing regional instability. Additionally, the rising public concern is likely to play a role in shaping the government's approach to relations with neighboring countries and international allies.