As the world steps into 2026, the backdrop is undeniably grim. Conflicts rage in approximately 50 countries, tariff wars are entrenched, and global economic growth has hit a multi-generational low. The prevailing mood is one of profound uncertainty. Yet, beneath this turbulence, a significant and perhaps unexpected trend is emerging: a clear public appetite for renewed global cooperation.
The Fractured World Order and Public Sentiment
The post-World War II international framework is under severe strain. The world is transitioning from a unipolar to a multipolar system, where power often trumps rules, and protectionist policies are overriding economic openness. Democracy is in retreat, with 91 autocracies now outnumbering 88 democracies globally. This environment has fueled a rise in aggressive nationalism and seen flagrant violations of humanitarian law, from Ukraine to Sudan and Ethiopia.
Despite these centrifugal forces, people worldwide are acutely aware that their daily lives are interconnected with global dynamics. A landmark survey by Focaldata, polling around 36,000 adults across 34 countries, provides compelling evidence. While two-thirds acknowledge that distant decisions impact them, majorities are also tuned into global health (77%), climate change (58%, rising to 63% among youth), and food supply disruptions (55%).
Where People Stand: Pragmatism Over Ideology
The survey dismantles the simplistic divide between 'localists' and 'globalists'. For most, support for cooperation is not about idealism but practical necessity. People prioritize having their fundamental needs met and see collaboration as a pathway to security.
Regional priorities vary: ensuring food and water is the top concern for 40% globally, while tackling poverty and inequality is paramount for 38%, with majority support in Sub-Saharan Africa. Protecting human rights (37%), supporting employment (36%), and promoting health and climate action are also key drivers, especially in the Global South.
This translates into robust support for international collaboration. It is strongest in Sub-Saharan Africa (68%) and East and South Asia (64%), regions where stability and prosperity are most vulnerable. Even in Northern Europe, where populist nationalism is potent, 57% are willing to compromise on national interests for global benefits.
The Silent Majority for Multilateralism
The research identifies three broad cohorts supporting international cooperation, together forming a decisive majority. First, 22% are 'good-cause multilateralists', motivated by altruism to support humanitarian aid. A second 22% are 'pragmatic multilateralists' who demand tangible results and efficient use of taxes. The third group, 21%, are 'self-interested multilateralists' who back cooperation when it delivers clear benefits for their own communities, like food security or peace.
This indicates that for multilateralism to thrive, it must be rooted in delivering visible improvements to everyday life—addressing unaffordable essentials, job insecurity, and health threats. The process must start locally, showing people how global cooperation solves their pressing problems.
Interestingly, trust in some multilateral bodies remains relatively high. The World Health Organization enjoys 60% global trust (71% in Africa), and 58% trust the United Nations—a rating higher than most national governments. In contrast, no major power (US, EU, China, Russia) is trusted by more than three in ten people globally.
Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, now UN special envoy for global education, argues this data reveals a clear mandate. A majority can be mobilized for humanitarian aid and global action on climate and pandemics if framed as enlightened self-interest. However, this support is conditional and fragile; it will evaporate if cooperation is seen as wasteful.
The ultimate signal from the polling is one of hope, not retreat. Across 18 major economies, nearly four in ten citizens believe effective cooperation means agreeing on a long-term plan for peace and progress, guided by trust-building values. Even in an age of zero-sum politics, people yearn for leaders to articulate a shared vision of what humanity can achieve together, offering a potential foundation for a new, values-based global order.
