China is now viewed more favourably than the United States in a majority of countries surveyed, marking the first time the Pew Research Center has recorded such a shift in global public opinion.
The survey, conducted between February and May among more than 42,000 respondents across 36 countries, found that China received more favourable ratings than the U.S. in 25 countries.
According to the study, favourable views of China have reached their highest levels in many countries, while perceptions of the United States have declined. Spain, Italy, Greece, Canada, and Indonesia recorded some of the largest swings in China’s favour.
Respondents also expressed greater confidence in Chinese President Xi Jinping than in U.S. President Donald Trump, although confidence in both leaders remained relatively low overall.
While respondents generally viewed the United States as more respectful of personal freedoms, they were more likely to believe that China interferes less in the internal affairs of other countries.
The findings represent a notable shift in international attitudes and the first time Pew has found China enjoying a more favourable image than the United States across such a large number of countries since it began tracking global opinion in 2002.
Despite the broader trend, the United States continues to receive more favourable ratings in a small group of countries, including Poland, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, India, and Israel.
The survey adds to growing evidence of changing geopolitical perception as competition between Washington and Beijing continues to shape international relations.
