Public Attitudes to Responding to Global Catastrophic Risks: A New Zealand Case Study

Human civilization faces a range of global catastrophic risks (GCRs), including nuclear war, bioengineered pandemics, major solar storms, and uncontrolled artificial intelligence. In New Zealand, limited information exists on public views about whether the government should respond to such risks. A representative survey of 1012 adults in July 2024 included two questions on GCRs. Sixty-six percent (95%CI: 63%-70%) supported the government developing specific plans to address extreme risks, and 60% (95%CI: 56%-63%) supported establishing a dedicated commission or agency. In multivariable models, support increased with age, education, income, and trust in scientists (the latter also associated with support for an agency). There were no significant differences by gender, ethnicity, or political orientation. These findings suggest a clear majority of the public supports government planning for catastrophic risks. Further research, including repeat surveys and deliberative methods such as citizens' assemblies, could help explore underlying reasons for opposition and how the public weigh policy trade-offs.