A worldwide poll conducted by GlobalScan, in partnership with the University of Maryland’s Program for International Policy Attitudes (PIPA), found rising levels of negative attitudes toward the US. A majority of over 23,000 citizens from the 23 countries polled further indicate a desire for decreased US influence in the international community and an increase in influence by an alternate political body, like the EU or the UN. Significantly, 34 percent of Americans polled also share this view, perhaps reflecting dissatisfaction with unilateral foreign policies favored by the current administration.

When asked whether the five UN Security Council permanent members had a positive or negative influence in the world, respondents said that France, Britain, and China have a positive influence, while the US and Russia have a negative influence. Steven Kull attributes France, Britain, and China’s popularity to their use of “soft power,” or economic relations (i.e., trade, development aid), in contrast to the US and Russia’s use of “hard power,” or military strength. “While trade might buy you love,” he observed, “guns clearly do not.”

Also notable are global trends to balance US power with international alliances. Speakers discussed a rise in pan-Asianism and increased enthusiasm for the development of an East Asian economic community that would omit US participation. Also, a majority of respondents from all countries (including the US) desire increased UN influence, particularly a UN with an expanded Security Council permanent membership and veto override options.

These trends in perceptions may prove lasting, at least in the short term. Young-adult respondents, as well as those respondents with higher education and income, were more likely to favor a balance to US power, and to view the US in a negative light.

Last Updated December 15, 2005

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