Global Poll Reveals Rising Pessimism but Strong Support for International Cooperation on Security
Event summary
- A 34-country survey by The Rockefeller Foundation found that 69% of respondents believe the world has worsened over the past year, yet 57% support international cooperation despite national compromises.
- Preventing wars and conflicts is the top priority for cooperation, selected by 44% of respondents, 11 points ahead of the next issue.
- Majorities in all 34 countries favor reversing recent aid cuts or increasing aid after learning of projected human costs, with support ranging from 54% in the UK to 82% in Brazil.
- Trust in international institutions like the WHO (69%) and the UN (62%) has increased since 2025.
- Support for cooperation has diverged between wealthier economies (61%) and developing economies (53%).
The big picture
The survey highlights a growing global pessimism amid economic and security challenges, yet a strong preference for international cooperation over isolationism. This trend underscores the need for effective global governance and collective action, particularly in addressing security concerns and reversing aid cuts. The divergence in support between wealthier and developing economies suggests varying priorities and challenges that leaders must navigate to foster meaningful cooperation.
What we're watching
- Security Prioritization
- How the global emphasis on preventing conflicts will influence international policy and resource allocation.
- Aid Reversal
- Whether the public's support for reversing aid cuts will translate into policy changes and increased funding.
- Institutional Trust
- The pace at which trust in international institutions will continue to grow and its impact on global cooperation.