International Cooperation Priorities: Security Gains Prominence Amid Global Challenges

As leaders from around the globe prepare for the United Nations General Assembly, a recent survey involving 34 nations has shed light on the shifting priorities related to international cooperation. Conducted by The Rockefeller Foundation, this annual global research indicates that despite a surge in pessimism regarding the state of the world, there is a clear, collective focus on security.

Key Findings of the Survey

The poll, which involved approximately 35,399 individuals between July and August 2026, illuminates a stark contrast between the issues that people perceive as pressing. Specifically, nearly 70% of respondents believe that the world has worsened in the past year. However, amidst this turmoil, preventing wars and conflicts emerged as the foremost priority for international cooperation, with 44% of participants selecting it as their top concern. This issue was notably prioritized above economic growth or environmental challenges.

Moreover, 57% of respondents expressed the belief that their nations should engage in cooperative efforts to tackle global challenges, even if it necessitates some compromises on their national interests. This slight increase from 55% in the previous year signifies a growing openness toward collaborative approaches despite rising domestic concerns.

Importance of Collective Action

The survey also reveals that the public believes collective action is crucial in the realm of security. When questioned about the most effective way to prevent conflicts, a majority indicated that cooperation among multiple nations was preferable over relying solely on national governments. In wealthier economies, 45% of respondents favored collaborative frameworks, while 38% in developing economies shared this sentiment.

Interestingly, support for reversing recent cuts in international aid was substantial, following revelations that these cuts could result in millions of preventable deaths, particularly in the world's poorest regions. Majorities in all surveyed countries expressed support for increasing aid, with figures ranging from 54% in the United Kingdom to 82% in Brazil, emphasizing a moral and national interest in humanitarian outreach.

Diverse Landscape of Global Leadership

The survey highlights a fragmented leadership landscape, where neither the United States nor China enjoys overwhelming public support. Only 39% are comfortable with U.S. leadership, while 37% feel similarly about China. In contrast, nations like Canada (60%), Japan (58%), and Australia (55%) garnered higher confidence ratings. Sharp variations in threat perceptions were also recorded, particularly regarding geopolitical tensions with Russia, the United States, and China.

Despite these challenging dynamics, the inclination for collective action persists. 61% of respondents support cooperation involving a coalition of countries irrespective of whether the U.S. or China participates, indicating a desire for a more collaborative international approach to address global problems.

Conclusion: A Call for Renewed Principles of Cooperation

Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, President of The Rockefeller Foundation, articulated the need for leaders to respond to public calls for cooperation by fostering an environment where shared values and mutual responsibility become the norm. The insights from this survey are clear: people across various nations are looking for a concerted effort to navigate the complexities of today's global challenges.

As the UN General Assembly convenes, the challenge now lies in translating this public sentiment into actionable commitments that prioritize security and uphold collective action in a world characterized by uncertainty and upheaval. This survey serves as a crucial reminder that while people may be aware of the dire state of global affairs, they are still hopeful and supportive of collaborative efforts that promise a safer, more integrated future.