For the first time in the world, it is beneficial to China rather than the United States

The latest index of democracy’s concepts reveals a major shift in global attitudes, and now for the first time in the history of the survey, it is now more beneficial to the United States than the United States. This unexpected discovery is amid global support for democratic principles, even if citizens express dissatisfaction with government performance.

The 2025 Democracy Perception Index, released Monday before the Copenhagen Democracy Summit, surveyed more than 111,000 respondents in 100 countries, accounting for more than 91% of the global population. This study, conducted by NIRA Data in collaboration with the Alliance of Democratic Countries Foundation, provides unprecedented insights into how people perceive democracy globally.

Transfer global perspectives to reshape international relations

Perhaps the most striking revelation in this year’s research is the sharp decline in the United States’ global status. The U.S. net perception rating dropped from +22% in 2024 to -5% in 2025, below China’s rating +14% and close to Russia’s -9%. The percentage of the U.S. enjoying a positive image has dropped from 76% to 45% of the year.

Anders Fogh Rasmussen, chairman of the League of Democratic Countries Foundation and former NATO chief, expressed concern about the findings, but was not surprised: I am not surprised that perceptions of the United States have dropped so dramatically, although I find support for the rules-based international order reassuring.

This dramatic shift means that 76 of the 96 countries surveyed have a more positive view of China than the United States. Even in Europe, net awareness of China often exceeds that of the United States, especially in Western European countries. The gap is particularly evident in the Middle East and North Africa.

The paradox of democracy: Despite governance concerns, strong support

Despite these geopolitical shifts, the study reveals a lasting global commitment to democratic principles. More than two-thirds of the world believe that democracy is “very important” to their countries, with the highest support in Greece (89%) and Türkiye (87%).

However, in studying everything that people think democracy should offer, a significant paradox emerges:

• In 52% of countries, improving living standards and well-being is the main purpose of democracy
• Only 19% of people have the ability to choose freely government
• Only 16% emphasize the protection of individual rights and freedoms
• Only 13% of the focus is on promoting a fair and peaceful society

This democratic pragmatic view is in stark contrast to citizens’ assessments of government performance. In 18 policy areas, global government ratings account for only 2.77% on average, and are particularly dissatisfied with the cost of living, poverty reduction and affordable housing.

Security issues form a national defense attitude

The study also reveals compelling insights into security perceptions. Although 85% of the countries surveyed believe that countries should comply with international laws even if they restrict their freedom of movement, there are significant regional differences in defense priorities.

The willingness to defend one’s own country personally varies from region to region. The Middle East and North Africa showed the highest readiness (69% of those aged 18-55), while Western European countries such as France, Italy and Belgium showed the lowest rates worldwide, with less than a third of them willing to fight.

The mixed view of defense spending and people’s willingness to defend their own country is very worrying, especially in Europe, Watch out for Rasmussen. We face serious threats to our security and our government must provide cases to voters in order to invest in our defense today to ensure peace and freedom prevail.

Leadership concept shapes global opinions

The study also examines global perceptions of key politicians. Donald Trump became the most widely recognized political leader (85% awareness), followed by Vladimir Putin (81%), Xi Jinping (63%) and Narendra Modi (35%) (35%) are less familiar with the global audience.

However, awareness cannot be transformed into positive perceptions. Trump faces negative ratings in 82% of the country, much worse than Putin (61%) and XI (44%). By contrast, cultural and commercial figures such as Pope Francis, Angelina Jolie and Bill Gates enjoy consistently positive global ratings.

NIRA Data CEO Dr. Nico Jaspers summarizes the significance of the report: This year’s Democracy Perception Index highlights a world standing at a critical crossroads. While democracy continues to receive strong and extensive support globally, two-thirds of the world are deeply concerned about the ability of governments to improve their living standards, manage their economy and provide security.

As the perception of global power continues to develop, these findings indicate a critical moment in a global democratic system. Can they make practical improvements in the living standards that citizens increasingly demand? The answer may determine the future of democracy in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.