A global study published on Wednesday revealed that the reputation of the U.S. has declined over the past year, particularly in Muslim-majority countries and certain European nations. While the U.S. is still viewed positively worldwide, countries like Russia and China are now seen as equally favorable. Meanwhile, concerns about election integrity and immigration have been growing among citizens, with many expressing dissatisfaction with how democracies are functioning. The study, known as the Democracy Perception Index, collected data from 63,000 interviews across 53 countries and showed that faith in democracy remains strong, although there are concerns about corruption and unfair elections in various nations.
In Europe, reducing immigration has become a top priority for many, with countries like Germany, Ireland, and France leading the charge in wanting their governments to focus on this issue. Climate change, on the other hand, has seen a decrease in priority among the public, as immigration concerns take center stage. The study also pointed out that government satisfaction is not limited to non-democratic countries, with dissatisfaction being prevalent in Western democracies like the U.S. and Europe. The perception that governments only act in the interest of a small group of people has been on the rise, particularly in Latin America and Europe, despite differences in the level of democracy.
Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the chair of the Alliance of Democracies Foundation, warned of the growing risk of losing the Global South to autocracies, highlighting the need for democratic governments to listen to voters’ concerns and address them. A “rally around the flag” effect has been observed in countries like Israel, Ukraine, and Russia during times of conflict, but perceptions of government serving the interests of the majority have fluctuated. War, poverty, and climate change are seen as the most important global challenges, while issues like migration and terrorism are gaining prominence, especially among Europeans. The study emphasized the importance of defending democracy and promoting freedom to counter the rise of autocracies globally.
At a national level, poverty reduction, corruption, and economic growth are top priorities for most citizens, but regional differences in priorities exist. Europeans and Americans are more likely to prioritize healthcare, climate change, and reducing immigration, while Asian and Latin American countries focus on corruption and economic growth. While 33% of those surveyed believe climate change is a major global challenge, only 14% consider it a top priority for their government. The upcoming European elections are expected to showcase the significance of immigration as a central issue, with nationalist parties poised to make gains. Issues like poverty reduction, corruption, and economic growth are also key concerns at the national level.
