Global conflicts reach highest point since World War II, data shows

Global armed conflicts surged to unprecedented levels in 2025, with researchers documenting the highest number of simultaneous conflicts since World War II ended in 1945.

The Uppsala Conflict Data Program, which tracks worldwide conflicts, recorded approximately 244,600 deaths from armed conflict in 2025. This figure represents the highest annual death toll since the program began systematic tracking in 1994.

The data encompasses conflicts across multiple regions and scales, from civil wars to interstate disputes. Researchers compiled the figures through analysis of multiple sources including news reports, government records, and humanitarian organizations.

The 244,600 deaths recorded in 2025 surpass the previous peaks documented in recent decades. The surge marks a significant increase from years immediately preceding 2025, according to the program's database.

The Uppsala Conflict Data Program, based at Uppsala University in Sweden, maintains one of the most comprehensive open-source databases of armed conflict globally. The program defines conflicts based on battle-related deaths and involvement of organized armed groups.