Stalemate Sparks Global Disappointment
The U.S. federal government has entered a shutdown for the first time in nearly seven years, prompting widespread concern among global citizens. A survey of 7,671 respondents across 38 countries by CGTN and Renmin University of China reveals a deep unease with the political deadlock and its impact on U.S. governance.
Key Survey Findings
Partisan strife intensifies divisions: 71.5 percent say conflicts have deepened social rifts.
Systemic flaws exposed: 74.4 percent see irreconcilable contradictions in U.S. institutions.
Calls for reform: 73.2 percent urge urgent changes to the political system.
Regional Outlook
Europe: 75.1 percent report deeper divisions; 78.4 percent cite fundamental flaws.
North America: 84.3 percent see intensified social splits; 85.3 percent highlight systemic contradictions.
Oceania: 77.4 percent note deep flaws; only 41.4 percent approve governance effectiveness.
Approval Ratings Lag
Just 56.5 percent of Europeans and 41.4 percent of Oceanians approve U.S. governance capabilities. Even fewer trust its ability to improve living standards (39.1 percent in Europe, 34.3 percent in Oceania) or prevent corruption (27.2 percent in Europe, 21.8 percent in Oceania). Confidence in public safety is also low, with approval ratings of 39.1 percent and 28.8 percent respectively.
Implications and Next Steps
The shutdown underscores debates about institutional resilience and the need for reform. For young entrepreneurs, activists, and travelers, the findings add to questions about the U.S. role on the global stage during domestic gridlock.
As the shutdown continues, observers worldwide will watch how leaders address calls for systemic reform and whether democratic ideals can be revitalized amid deep partisan divides.
The online survey sampled adults aged 18 to 65 in major developed and Global South nations, aligning with local census age and gender distributions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
