Riots and recession the top predictions for 2026

PUBLIC unrest and an economic spiral are expected by a majority of Britons in 2026.

- BY DAVID WILLIAMSON

Polling lays bare the pessimism across the UK as the nation looks ahead to the next 12 months.

More than six out of 10 people quizzed (61%) fear there will be violent riots and protests in Keir Starmer’s Britain.

And almost as many (60%) expect the UK to enter a recession.

A majority (54%) also worry that a major cyber attack will disrupt critical infrastructure.

In international politics — and despite the current high-profile talks — just 22% say it is likely the war in Ukraine will end.