World Economies

In several countries, favorable views of the U.S. are at their lowest point since the Center began polling on this topic two decades ago.

A median of 80% across 10 countries now say their country’s economy is faring badly, compared with a median of 72% who said this in 2008-2009.

The spread of infectious diseases is the top concern in the U.S., UK, Japan and South Korea as global economic concerns grow.

Assessments of national economies have seen swift downturns in many countries, and few see improvements anytime soon.

The pandemic has had a divisive effect on a sense of national unity in many of the countries surveyed: A median of 46% feel more national unity now than before the coronavirus outbreak, while 48% think divisions have grown.

People in many countries support foreign companies building factories in their own nation. But fewer support foreign firms buying domestic ones.

Across 34 countries, a median of 65% said in 2019 they felt pessimistic about reducing the gap between the rich and poor in their country.

Unfavorable views of China reach new historic high, and a majority supports taking a tougher stand on human rights.

Even as they age, younger generations in the U.S. tend to be more favorably disposed to groups, leaders and countries beyond their border.

There is widespread support in Taiwan for increased economic and political ties with the U.S. While many are wary of stronger political ties with mainland China, about half would favor stronger economic relations.