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An In-Depth Look at Global Sentiment Towards the United Nations

As the United Nations (UN) approaches a significant leadership change, a new report from Gallup reveals that global public sentiment is generally in favor of the organization. According to the report, which analyzed surveys from 137 countries conducted in 2025, a median approval rate of 50% among adults worldwide reflects a net approval score of +24, despite the complexities surrounding opinions about the UN.

This report emerges at a time when the UN faces myriad challenges, including ongoing humanitarian crises, geopolitical strife, and a delicate balance of global power. Notably, the approval rate for the UN outshines those of prominent world powers such as Germany, China, the United States, and Russia, with their approval ratings standing at 48%, 36%, 31%, and 26%, respectively. While these comparisons may not be entirely equivalent, they underscore the UN's perceived performance on the global stage.

Approval Trends Across Nations

An impressive 67 out of the 137 countries surveyed registered majority approval for the UN. In 92 countries, the gap between those who approve versus those who disapprove was at least ten percentage points in favor of the organization. Conversely, overwhelming disapproval was noted in only nine countries, with 19 others showing a significant disapproval margin of at least ten points.

Regional approval ratings tell a vivid story: Vietnam boasts a net approval score of +75, closely followed by Cambodia (+74) and Laos (+71). In stark contrast, Israel has the lowest approval score at -61, with Russia and Tunisia trailing behind at -58 and -48, respectively. This striking contrast in public opinion illustrates the varying perceptions of the UN based on local contexts and experiences.

Regional Insights and Youth Perspectives

The report also breaks down approval ratings by region, noting that Southeast Asia leads with a net approval of +51 and sub-Saharan Africa follows with +43. Other regions, including Europe, South Asia, Northern America, and Post-Soviet Eurasia, reported generally positive views. However, the Middle East and North Africa region marked a significant point of contention, boasting a net disapproval rate of -23, indicating a need for a nuanced approach in these areas. Interestingly, Latin America and the Caribbean showcased a near-even split in opinions.

Youth perspectives play a crucial role in shaping the future of international sentiment. Those between the ages of 15 and 29 exhibit the highest median net approval across nearly every region, except Northern America, which reveals subtle differences based on age. This finding suggests that younger generations may be more optimistic or engaged with global governance compared to older demographics.

The Complexity Beneath Approval Ratings

While overall approval ratings provide useful insights, the report notes that public sentiment is not as clear-cut as it may seem. Many individuals express that their perceptions of the UN are contingent on specific circumstances or admit a lack of familiarity with the organization. This uncertainty is particularly evident in South Asia, where a median of 16% reported being unaware of the UN. In Latin America and the Caribbean, the percentage of those unsure or unwilling to express an opinion is the highest at 16%.

Certain nations reflect sharper uncertainties. For instance, 41% of South Koreans say their opinion of the UN fluctuates based on events, while 35% of those surveyed in Lesotho claim ignorance regarding the organization's role. These findings highlight the necessity for the UN to better communicate its initiatives and relevance to global citizens.

Lessons from Security Council Member States

Among the 2026 Security Council Member States, approval ratings for the UN vary significantly. Denmark showcases high approval at 79%, while Russia struggles with a mere 15% approval rate. New member states anticipated in 2027 report over 60% approval in nations like Zimbabwe, Portugal, and Austria, contrasting with Kyrgyzstan's lower 39% approval rating.

Furthermore, in regions where the UN has a pronounced operational presence, approval does not always correlate with presence. For example, Kosovo shows a commendable 70% approval, yet Israel finds itself at the bottom with only 9% approval. This disparity underscores the complexity of international perceptions and the varying impacts of UN initiatives based on local context and media reporting.

In closing, Gallup CEO Jon Clifton aptly notes the prevailing sentiment: “With public sentiment, nothing can fail; without it, nothing can succeed.” The report concludes that, amid a multitude of challenges, the UN maintains a predominantly favorable global perception, a fact that might be overshadowed in broader geopolitical discussions. For more comprehensive data and insights, access the full report at gallup.com.

About Gallup

Gallup has been at the forefront of measuring public opinion and global sentiment for over 80 years, providing crucial analytics and advice to leaders and organizations around the world as they seek to address pressing issues and navigate complex challenges.