Global views of China and Xi improve as perceptions of US decline, Pew survey finds

A recent Pew Research Centre survey reveals a growing positive perception of China and its leader, President Xi Jinping, globally, coinciding with a declining image of the United States. The findings indicate that international views of China have improved significantly since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, while confidence in the U.S. has waned. The survey, conducted between February and May, gathered responses from over 45,000 individuals across 37 countries, encompassing both developed and developing nations. The data highlights a notable shift in how different regions perceive China and the U.S. In 2023, the U.S. held a more favorable image, with 54 percent of respondents viewing it more positively than China, while only 19 percent favored China. However, the latest survey shows that China now enjoys a higher average favorability rating than the U.S., with 46 percent of respondents expressing a favorable view of China, compared with 36 percent for the U.S. Jonathan Schulman, a research associate at Pew Research Centre, noted that views of China had been at or near historic lows in many countries during the pandemic but have since steadily increased. He added that views of the U.S. have declined in many places, and the share of people who believe the U.S. is a reliable partner to their country has dropped sharply. The survey was carried out during a period when the U.S. faced increasing challenges, including conflicts with Iran and other regional issues. These developments may have influenced public sentiment towards the U.S., contributing to the observed decline in its global image. Meanwhile, China's resurgence in global favorability could be attributed to its economic recovery post-pandemic and its role in international affairs. The survey included countries such as Argentina, Australia, France, Ghana, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Turkey, and the U.S., providing a comprehensive overview of global opinions. The results suggest that China's influence is expanding, particularly in regions where the U.S. has struggled to maintain its traditional alliances and partnerships. Across the 20 countries that Pew has surveyed consistently over time, all of which were included in this year’s 37-country survey, China now holds a higher average favorability rating than the U.S. This marks a significant change from previous years when the U.S. was generally viewed more favorably. The survey's findings reflect broader geopolitical shifts and changing dynamics in international relations. As the U.S. grapples with domestic and foreign policy challenges, China continues to assert itself on the global stage, potentially reshaping the balance of power in international politics. The survey underscores the importance of understanding shifting public perceptions and their implications for global diplomacy and cooperation. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the roles and responsibilities of major powers like China and the U.S. will continue to evolve, influencing international relations and global governance.