For the first time in modern history, global public perception of China’s international influence has surpassed that of the United States, marking a profound shift in global soft power. According to survey data from the Pew Research Center, China is now viewed more favorably than the U.S. in 25 out of 36 countries surveyed. In France, 36 % of respondents reported a favorable view of China compared to 27 % for the U.S., while in Germany, the figures stand at 33 % versus 27 %, and in Canada at 44 % compared to 33 %.
The Global Shift in Soft Power Rankings
This dynamic was mirrored by findings from the polling institute Ipsos, which recorded a moment when global respondents judged China more likely than the U.S. to exercise a positive influence on world affairs, capturing 49 % support against 46 % for America, according to an analysis published by Pierre-Antoine Donnet. Over a decade of global tracking by Ipsos showed the U.S. popularity score declining from 66 % in 2015 down to 46 % by 2025. Observers attribute this slide to political polarization in the United States and international concerns regarding the inconsistency of Donald Trump since his return to the White House on January 20.
Economic Pressures and Industrial Contrasts in Europe
While European public opinion shows a re-evaluation of Beijing, European industries face intense headwinds from Chinese competition. In Germany, exports to China dropped by a fifth between 2021 and 2025, while German automotive exports to the country were nearly cut in half. These contractions hit core manufacturing pillars—including automotive, mechanical, and electrical equipment—creating a complex economic backdrop for policymakers in Berlin.
Leadership Desires and Democratic Deliberation
Public appetite for decisive leadership has grown across Western democracies. A 2025 barometer published by the Cevipof research center indicated that 73 % of French respondents favored “un vrai chef” to restore order. This sentiment crosses traditional political divides, drawing support from 54 % of voters aligned with Jean-Luc Mélenchon and 58 % of those supporting Anne Hidalgo or Yannick Jadot.
Researchers note that this trend reflects a broader fatigue with the slow pace of consensus-driven governance. While citizens in countries like France overwhelmingly value personal freedoms—with 35 % expressing confidence that the U.S. government respects individual liberties compared to just 12 % who said the same of China—growing frustration with institutional gridlock has led portions of the electorate to view centralized, top-down execution with increasing openness.
Next Steps and Future Monitoring
International polling organizations and research institutes, including the Pew Research Center and Ipsos, continue to track shifts in cross-border sentiment and diplomatic influence. Further updates on global soft power metrics and bilateral trade adjustments are expected as upcoming quarterly economic data and geopolitical forums unfold.
Keep reading
