Most People Want Global Cooperation Over Nationalism

While politicians around the world preach nationalism and rail against foreign nations, most people want something entirely different: global cooperation.

A landmark 2025 survey of 36,405 people across 34 countries found that 55% believe their country should cooperate on global challenges even if it means compromising on national interests. When people knew cooperation would actually solve problems, that support jumped to 75%.

The Rockefeller Foundation commissioned the research through Focaldata, and the findings reveal a surprising gap between political rhetoric and public opinion. People see international cooperation as essential for food security, clean water, jobs, health, trade, and fighting climate change.

Other polls confirm this trend is growing. An Ipsos survey of 22,000 adults in 31 countries found support for global solidarity increased significantly in 2026. Nearly two-thirds now believe international bodies should have the power to enforce solutions for problems like environmental pollution.

Trust in global institutions runs high too. The United Nations earned a 58% approval rating, while the World Health Organization scored 60%. A separate Pew Research Center survey found 61% of adults across 25 countries view the UN favorably.

Perhaps most surprising are the American numbers. Despite "America First" rhetoric dominating headlines, 61% of U.S. respondents support cooperating on global challenges even when it means compromising. That's actually higher than the global average.

American support for the United Nations sits at 57%, up 5% from the previous year. A Chicago Council on Global Affairs study found two-thirds of Americans want the U.S. to make more decisions within the UN framework, even when policies aren't the country's first choice.

One survey even tested support for radical new ideas. When asked about electing a world parliament to handle global issues, 40% of 117,000 people across 101 countries approved, while only 27% opposed.

The Ripple Effect

This shift in public opinion creates real opportunities for leaders willing to champion cooperation over conflict. The data shows people aren't naive about compromise. They understand solving problems like climate change and food security requires nations working together, not alone.

Support does vary by country and politics. India leads at 81% support for cooperation, while Japan sits at 34%. Left-leaning voters favor international cooperation more than conservatives, with the gap widest in America where 81% of liberals support the UN compared to 34% of conservatives.

The message is clear: everyday people across the planet want their countries working together, not retreating into nationalist corners.