Global Poll Shows Declining Trust in US and China

A global poll of over 35,000 people across 34 countries indicates a significant decline in trust toward the United States and China as global leaders. Commissioned by The Rockefeller Foundation, the survey found that 61% of respondents support international cooperation that excludes both nations, with many viewing them as threats.

The shift in sentiment follows a year of global instability characterized by sweeping tariffs imposed by Donald Trump and a conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran that began on February 28. This conflict led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and widespread economic volatility. Consequently, nearly 70% of respondents believe the world has worsened over the past year.

While trust in the United States and China has fallen, confidence in international institutions like the United Nations, World Health Organization, and World Bank has increased. Canada, Japan, and Australia emerged as the most trusted nations to lead world affairs, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney championing a middle powers approach to global governance.