Satisfaction with democracy has declined in recent years in high-income nations
Many worldwide are dissatisfied with how democracy is working. In several high-income democracies, dissatisfaction has been on the rise since 2021.
Many worldwide are dissatisfied with how democracy is working. In several high-income democracies, dissatisfaction has been on the rise since 2021.
A 24-country survey finds a median of 59% are dissatisfied with how their democracy is functioning, and 74% think elected officials don’t care what people like them think.
Across 34 nations polled, a 43% median have confidence in Biden’s handling of world affairs, while a 28% median have confidence in Trump.
Most think social media has made it easier to manipulate and divide people, but they also say it informs and raises awareness.
We asked respondents in both countries to, in their own words, define what democracy means to them. Most commonly, people mention three broad concepts: freedom and human rights, elections and procedures, and having a voice in government.
As democratic nations have wrestled with economic, social and geopolitical upheaval in recent years, the future of liberal democracy has come into question. Our international surveys reveal key insights into how citizens think about democratic governance.
Dissatisfaction with the functioning of democracy is linked to concerns about the economy, the pandemic and social divisions.
The U.S. is seen positively in advanced economies for its technology, entertainment, military and universities, but negatively for its health care system, discrimination and the state of its democracy.
Most say U.S. is reliable partner, and ratings for Biden are mostly positive – although down significantly from last year.
Majorities say the democratic principles tested on our survey are at least somewhat important. But often, underwhelming percentages describe democratic rights and institutions as very important.
901 E St. NW, Suite 300
Washington, DC 20004
USA
(+1) 202-419-4300 | Main
(+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax
(+1) 202-419-4372 | Media Inquiries
ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan, nonadvocacy fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It does not take policy positions. The Center conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, computational social science research and other data-driven research. Pew Research Center is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts, its primary funder.
© 2024 Pew Research Center
Notifications