Global Poll: 55% Back Cooperation Over National Interests

While politicians around the world pound podiums with nationalist slogans, their citizens are quietly asking for something different. A landmark 2025 survey of 36,405 people across 34 countries found that 55% believe their nation should cooperate on global challenges, even when it means compromising on national interests.

The Rockefeller Foundation commissioned research company Focaldata to understand what people really want from their governments. When respondents learned that cooperation actually solves problems, support jumped to 75%. People see working together as essential for food security, jobs, health, and tackling climate change.

Other polls confirm the trend is growing stronger. An Ipsos survey of over 22,000 adults in 31 countries showed support for global solidarity increased significantly from 2025 to 2026. Nearly two-thirds now agree that international bodies should enforce solutions for problems like environmental pollution.

The United Nations enjoys strong public backing despite frequent political criticism. A Pew Research Center survey covering nearly 32,000 adults in 25 countries found 61% hold favorable views of the UN, while only 32% view it unfavorably. Trust in the World Health Organization stands even higher at 60%.

Perhaps most surprising are the numbers from the United States. Despite intense "America First" messaging from recent administrations, 61% of Americans say the US should cooperate globally even when compromising some national interests. That's actually higher than the worldwide average.

Two-thirds of surveyed Americans told the Chicago Council on Global Affairs that the United States should make more decisions within the UN framework, even when that means accepting policies that aren't the first choice.

The Ripple Effect: When citizens in India (81%), South Korea (73%), and even politically divided America show majority support for cooperation, it sends a clear message to leaders. Democracy Without Borders commissioned a poll of 117,000 people in 101 countries about electing a world parliament to handle global issues. While the concept is radical, 40% approved compared to just 27% opposed.

Political differences matter, with people on the left more supportive than those on the right. In America, 81% of liberals favor the UN versus 34% of conservatives. But even with these divisions, most countries still show net positive support for working together.

The gap between heated political rhetoric and quiet public opinion has never been wider, and people are making their preferences clear.