Willingness to fight for one’s country in the event of war differs sharply across the Balkans, shaped by history, national identity, and geopolitics, according to Gallup International surveys and supplementary data.
The 1990s Yugoslav Wars boost resolve in Kosovo and Croatia but breed skepticism in Bosnia and Serbia. Bulgaria, largely uninvolved, remains detached. Uncertainty is notable in Bulgaria (28%) and Bosnia (13%), contrasting with firmer stances in Albania and Kosovo.
Albania with 60% Willingness
Albania shows the highest readiness among Balkan nations detailed in recent data, with 60% of respondents willing to fight, 28% unwilling, and 12% undecided. The figure, drawn from a 2023 Gallup survey, reflects a strong sense of national duty, possibly linked to historical resistance and regional tensions. Social media posts on X suggest a 2024 or 2025 poll raised this to 79%, though the date and methodology remain unconfirmed.
Bosnia & Herzegovina Split at 40%
In Bosnia & Herzegovina, 40% are willing to fight, 47% are not, and 13% are unsure, per the 2023 Gallup data. The country’s ethnic divisions—Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats—and memories of the 1992-1995 war likely contribute to this split. A 2015 Gallup survey showed 55% readiness, hinting at a decline possibly tied to emigration or distrust in institutions.
Bulgaria Lowest at 30%
Bulgaria records the region’s lowest willingness, with 30% saying yes, 42% no, and 28% undecided in 2023. EU and NATO membership may ease perceived threats, while the high uncertainty—among the world’s highest in Gallup’s findings—suggests ambivalence about military engagement.
Serbia Ranges from 36% to 46%
Serbia’s willingness varies across sources. A 2024-2025 Gallup poll cited on X shows 36%, while a 2019 survey from Serbian Monitor reported 46%. The range reflects a nation with a strong military past, including the Yugoslav Wars, tempered by war fatigue and a youth less inclined to fight—52% unwilling in a 2024 X-cited youth poll.
North Macedonia at 34-38%
North Macedonia’s readiness is modest, with 34% in a 2024 Gallup poll per X posts and 38% in a 2015 WIN/Gallup survey. NATO membership since 2020 and a focus on EU integration may explain the tepid response, alongside ethnic tensions between Macedonians and Albanians.
Croatia Estimated at 40-50%
Croatia lacks recent Gallup data, but a 2015 WIN/Gallup survey reported 46%. Its proximity to Bosnia (40%) and Serbia (36-46%) suggests a similar range today. The 1991-1995 Homeland War bolsters national identity, though EU and NATO ties may moderate enthusiasm.
Kosovo Hits 79%
Kosovo, not in the 2023 dataset but cited in 2024-2025 X posts, shows 79% willingness in a Gallup poll, up from 58% in 2015. Its contested status and tensions with Serbia likely drive this surge.
