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.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
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 the nations surveyed, a median of 62% of adults – including 63% in the United States – say their country will be better off if it is open to changes.
58% of Americans see NATO favorably, down 4 points since 2023. Democrats and Republicans are increasingly divided on the alliance and on Ukraine aid.
Most think social media has made it easier to manipulate and divide people, but they also say it informs and raises awareness.
Attitudes toward NATO have grown more positive: 67% express a favorable opinion of the organization, up from 61% in 2021.
How close do people feel to others around the world? How much do they want their countries involved in international affairs? How do people’s experiences with travel and feelings of international connectedness relate to their views about the world? A recent 24-nation survey explores these questions.
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.
Dissatisfaction with the functioning of democracy is linked to concerns about the economy, the pandemic and social divisions.
Most say U.S. is reliable partner, and ratings for Biden are mostly positive – although down significantly from last year.
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