Patriotism means different things to different people. For some, it’s waving a flag. For others, it’s believing that your country is the best place on Earth. But in an era of global migration, cultural mixing, and political uncertainty, what does patriotism really look like today?
A 2024 survey by YouGov set out to explore just that. It asked people in 19 countries a simple but loaded question: Do you think your country is the best in the world? The answers reveal not only national pride, but also how citizens feel about where they come from, where they’re going, and who they are.
The Top 10 Most Patriotic Countries in 2024
According to YouGov’s findings, these are the countries where people most strongly believe their nation is the best:
- United States – 41% say it’s the best country in the world
- India – 36%
- Saudi Arabia – 33%
- China – 29%
- Indonesia – 28%
- UAE – 27%
- Thailand – 25%
- Philippines – 24%
- Türkiye – 23%
- Malaysia – 21%
Clearly, patriotism remains alive in many parts of the world and Southeast Asia is well-represented with Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia in the top 10.
Why Are Southeast Asians So Proud?
There are several reasons patriotism might be rising in the region:
- Cultural identity: Countries like Indonesia and Thailand are rich in traditions, religion, and local wisdom, sources of pride that connect people to their roots.
- Resilient economies: Despite global challenges, Southeast Asia has shown consistent growth, fostering optimism.
- Youth-driven nationalism: A digitally savvy generation is redefining what pride looks like, through language, music, fashion, and social movements.
In short, patriotism here isn’t about isolation or superiority, it’s about connection and pride in local progress.
Patriotism vs. Nationalism: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse patriotism with nationalism, but they’re not the same.
- Patriotism is love for one’s country, often tied to gratitude, shared values, and civic duty.
- Nationalism, on the other hand, can suggest superiority and exclusion. It’s often used politically, and at times divisively.
There’s also chauvinism, the extreme belief that one’s country is inherently better than all others.
So while patriotism can unite, nationalism can divide depending on how it’s used.
Would You Fight for Your Country?
Interestingly, another global survey by WIN/Gallup International asked a different but related question: Would you be willing to fight for your country?
The results were surprising. In every country surveyed, more people said yes to fighting than to believing their country is “the best.” That tells us something important:
Even if people don’t claim superiority, many still feel a deep attachment and sense of responsibility to defend their homeland.
This sentiment was especially high in countries recently affected by civil unrest like parts of the Middle East and North Africa.
In a Globalized World, Does Patriotism Still Matter?
With borders more porous and identities more fluid, some argue that patriotism is outdated. But data shows it still matters.
It matters for belonging. For solidarity. For rebuilding after crisis.
And while patriotism doesn’t mean ignoring global issues, it can inspire people to improve the places they call home.
So, whether you believe your country is the best or just doing its best what matters is how that belief shapes your actions.
