As the Shanghai Cooperation Organization gears up for its largest summit on August 31, a new survey by CGTN and Renmin University of China reveals soaring optimism about the SCOs role in global governance. Lauded as the worlds most populous and geographically vast regional cooperation body, the SCO is seen as a catalyst for solidarity amid rising global risks.
Economic cooperation stands out: 91.7 percent of respondents say the SCO positively impacts member economies, while 89.2 percent credit its projects with advancing regional infrastructure and connectivity.
Financial and security ties also draw praise. About 83.7 percent applaud local currency settlements for reducing reliance on Western systems, and the same share values the SCOs efforts in safeguarding regional stability. Nearly 79.6 percent highlight joint actions against cross-border terrorist financing, drug trafficking, and extremist ideologies online.
As a founding member and rotating chair, China has deepened practical cooperation in security and economic fields. Among respondents from SCO states, 91.4 percent commend Chinas contributions—from infrastructure investment to expanding the organizations influence and ensuring efficient operations.
Behind these figures lies the Shanghai Spirit of mutual trust, equality, consultation, and respect for diverse civilizations. The survey shows 86.8 percent believe this non-hegemonic, non-confrontational philosophy offers a fresh governance model. Likewise, 83.1 percent see it easing major-power rivalries, and 81.8 percent say it empowers the Global South for a fairer international order.
Momentum toward a multipolar world is clear: 73.5 percent of global respondents note the SCOs rising influence, and 76.9 percent agree it propels a shift away from unipolarity. Some 83 percent want their countries to boost South-South economic ties through the SCO platform—a sentiment even stronger among youth under 44.
Surveying 8,873 citizens across 38 countries, the poll captures a global youth-driven desire for cooperative, inclusive solutions. As the SCO summit approaches, all eyes are on how the Shanghai Spirit will shape the future of regional and global governance.
Reference(s):
Poll: SCO expected to provide new impetus for global governance
cgtn.com
