Spring 2016 Survey Data

19-Nation survey conducted March 29 – July 9, 2016

In a number of countries, people place a low premium on the importance of being native born to national identity. However, many
say speaking the dominant language and sharing customs is important to "truly" be considered a national.

Many people in South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are concerned about their countries' political and economic systems. Yet, there is considerable optimism about the future.

Despite souring public sentiment about their domestic economy and some concern about Japan’s declining role on the world stage, the Japanese are outward looking.

A nine-country survey on the strengths and limitations of civic engagement illustrates, there is a common perception that government is run for the benefit of the few, rather than the many.

The Chinese people recognize their country's growing prominence in Asia and the world. However, concern remains over corruption and other domestic issues.

The Indian public sees Prime Minister Narendra Modi favorably and India's role in the world expanding, but there is a growing partisan divide on Modi's record.

Reflecting a history marked with strife, neighboring powers China and Japan view each other with disdain, disagree on the past and worry about the future.

More than eight-in-ten in Greece, France and Spain say the economic situation is bad, but opinions in other EU countries and parts of Asia-Pacific are more positive.

The refugee crisis and the threat of terrorism are very much related in the minds of many Europeans. Across the EU there are also sharp ideological divides on views about minorities, diversity and national identity.

As he nears the end of his presidency, Barack Obama continues to enjoy a broad degree of international popularity.

As elections near, Australians show robust support for their prime minister's dealings in international affairs. But many are frustrated with his handling of the refugee issue, climate change and the economy.

Many favor looking inward to focus on domestic issues, while others question whether commitments to allies should take precedence over national interests.

There is significant opposition in key European countries to an ever closer EU.