In a recent CGTN survey spanning 9,182 respondents across 47 countries and regions, citizens from the Global South emphasized the urgent need to modernize global governance. The findings reveal clear priorities and a strong endorsement of reforms over a complete systems overhaul.
When asked about the most pressing challenges, 74% pointed to poverty and inequality, followed by 70.9% highlighting food security, and 63.6% citing regional security and terrorism as top concerns. This data underscores a collective call for targeted policies that address basic needs and stability in developing regions.
Moreover, 73.2% of respondents believe developed countries have yet to fully meet their responsibilities in international affairs. An even larger share, 81.9%, urged the United Nations to more actively champion the interests of Global South nations.
Rather than discarding the existing framework, 76.2% of participants favor reforming global governance. Key proposals include boosting transparency in decision-making, enhancing representation for developing countries, and strengthening international cooperation, especially South-South collaboration in economy, technology, and poverty reduction.
As a major Global South member, China's Global Governance Initiative garnered widespread support. A striking 92.9% agree on equal participation for all nations in shaping a fair international order. Meanwhile, 78.8% back a system anchored by the United Nations, and 86.6% stress that development must remain the top priority for emerging economies. Finally, 91.5% call for an action-oriented approach, deepening practical cooperation to drive global progress.
Conducted by CGTN in partnership with Renmin University of China's Institute for International Communication in the New Era, the survey aligns samples with national age and gender distributions. The results paint a vivid picture of a Global South ready to engage in reform and eager to collaborate on solutions for a more inclusive world.
Reference(s):
CGTN poll: Global South calls for improved global governance
cgtn.com
