The latest Gallup World Poll, covering more than 130 countries in 2025, shows a notable shift in global perceptions of leadership. For the first time in nearly two decades, China has surpassed the United States in global leadership approval ratings. China recorded a median approval of 36%, compared to 31% for the United States.
China’s five-point lead marks the largest margin in its favor ever recorded by Gallup. This was driven by a four-point increase from 32% the previous year. In contrast, U.S. approval dropped by eight points, falling from 39% in 2024. This decline returned it to previously low levels.
Disapproval of U.S. leadership reached a record high of 48%. Approval ratings fell by at least 10 points in 44 countries between 2024 and 2025.
The decline was especially sharp among long-standing U.S. allies. These included Germany (down 39 points) and Portugal (down 38 points). Other countries affected included Canada, the United Kingdom, and Italy.
Israel stood out as a notable exception. U.S. approval there rebounded to 76% in 2025. This marked a 13-point increase and one of the highest levels recorded globally. It also reversed a sharp decline seen in 2024.
Gallup noted that the survey was completed before several major developments in early 2026. These included the U.S. withdrawal from 66 international organizations in January.
It also preceded the outbreak of the Iran conflict in February. As a result, the actual gap in global perceptions may be even wider today.
