China Overtakes US in Global Favourability for the First Time: Pew Survey
For the first time, China is viewed more favourably than the United States globally, according to a new Pew Research Center survey. The US-headquartered think tank polled more than 42,000 people across 36 countries between February and May 2026. Across 37 countries surveyed, a median of 51% held a favourable view of China versus 39% unfavourable, and more people viewed China favourably than the US in 25 of 36 nations. Pew attributed the shift to the impact of the Trump administration's 'America First' approach, though respondents showed low confidence in both Trump and Xi Jinping.
Key Facts & Details
7 points- 1A Pew Research Center survey found China overtook the US in global favourability for the first time.
- 2Pew polled over 42,000 people in 36 countries between February and May 2026.
- 3A median 51% held a favourable view of China versus 39% unfavourable.
- 4China was viewed more favourably than the US in 25 of 36 nations.
- 5Pew linked the shift to the Trump administration's 'America First' narrative.
Deep Dive
- +Respondents showed low confidence in both leaders — Donald Trump and Xi Jinping.
- +The survey period coincided with the US and Israel's conflict with Iran.
Exam Focus
Which think tank's survey found China overtaking the US in global favourability for the first time?
Related Topics
Exam Relevance & Angle
Global perception surveys by reputed think tanks are testable reports/international GA items. The Pew publisher, the 'first-time' finding and the 51% figure are precise hooks.
Target Exams
Background & Context
The Pew Research Center is a non-partisan, US-based think tank known for global attitudes surveys. Soft power and international favourability shape a country's diplomatic influence. The finding that China has, for the first time, edged ahead of the US in global favourability reflects shifts in perceptions amid US policy changes and geopolitical tensions, and is closely watched as an indicator of the two powers' global standing.
Test Yourself
1 / 2According to the 2026 Pew survey, what median share of respondents held a favourable view of China?
Source
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