The United States is experiencing a decline in global popularity, especially due to its strong support for Israel during the Gaza conflict, POLITICO writes. The 2024 Democracy Perception Index, based on surveys of over 63,000 individuals across 53 countries, reveals shifting attitudes towards democracy and global powers.
Since early 2023, America’s international reputation has suffered, particularly in Muslim-majority nations where its support for Israel has sparked controversy. Now, this decline is spreading to Western Europe, with countries like Germany, Austria, Ireland, Belgium, and Switzerland exhibiting increasingly negative perceptions of the U.S.
Conversely, China’s positive image is growing in Asia, North Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, offsetting European skepticism. Despite initial global criticism following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Russia is gradually improving its image in most regions, except Europe.
As America’s popularity dwindles, China and Russia are being viewed as positively as the U.S. in many Middle Eastern, North African, and Asian countries surveyed. These shifting perceptions could impact how governments respond to global power dynamics, as seen in Germany’s reaction to rising energy prices and Russian oil exports post-Ukraine invasion.
Survey results also highlight a softening stance towards economic ties with Russia and China, indicating a decrease in support for severing these ties compared to previous years. While the U.S. remains a dominant global player, cracks are appearing in the once-unwavering support from Western European allies, while China and Russia gain favor in other regions.
