In an ever-evolving world, understanding the pulse of the top economies becomes imperative for comprehending global dynamics. This survey aims to delve into the opinions of individuals residing in the five largest economies by Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – the United States (USA), China, Japan, Germany, and India – to gauge their sentiments on crucial aspects of governance, democracy, and foreign policy.
Introduction to Ij-Reportika’s Survey Series
As a new addition to Investigative Journalism Reportika (Ij-Reportika), renowned for its acclaimed investigative reports, this survey marks the inception of “The Survey Reportika” series. Demonstrating our commitment to delivering Vigilant, Visionary, and Varied perspectives, these editions aim to explore public sentiments in the top five economies.
Building on the legacy of past successes in investigative journalism, we aspire to provide impactful insights that contribute significantly to ongoing global conversations. “The Survey Reportika” series embodies our dedication to shedding light on critical issues, fostering a deeper understanding of public sentiments, and catalyzing positive changes on a global scale. Stay tuned for thought-provoking analyses and comprehensive reports that will shape discussions in the days to come.
Survey Overview
Conducted from November 20, 2023, to January 20, 2024, this extensive survey aims to explore the sentiments of 2.4 million participants across the top 5 economies. Utilizing a hybrid approach that blends offline and online methods, the survey ensures diverse representation across genders, religions, and ethnicities. This study is designed to provide a holistic understanding of global perspectives, contributing valuable insights to ongoing conversations on a range of critical issues.
Survey Methodology
The survey utilized a hybrid methodology, combining online forms hosted on the official Ij-Reportika website and on-the-ground connections facilitated by our reporters. This approach aimed to ensure a thorough and inclusive data collection process, capturing diverse perspectives and experiences.
Demographic Focus
The study primarily targeted individuals within the 20-45 age group, recognizing this demographic as a key contributor to societal perspectives. Inclusivity was prioritized by encompassing all genders, diverse religious backgrounds, and ethnicities.
Time Frame
The survey spanned two months from November 20, 2023, to January 20, 2024, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of sentiments.
Survey Questions
Democracy
- How satisfied are you with the state of democracy in your country?
- Do you believe that your government is transparent and accountable to its citizens?
Governance
- How satisfied are you with the overall performance of your government in addressing economic challenges?
- How satisfied are you with the overall performance of your government in addressing social challenges?
Foreign Policy
- How satisfied are you with your country’s foreign policy decisions?
- Do you believe that your government effectively represents your country’s interests on the global stage?
Dealing with Smaller States
- Do you think your government is handling diplomatic issues with smaller (economically) and lowest-income states appropriately?
Comparative Analysis
Country Wise Reports
USA
Cities: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston
A significant portion of individuals in the United States express dissatisfaction with the state of democracy, with 15.71% marking their discontent as “Dissatisfied” and a staggering 65.83% as “Extremely Dissatisfied.” The primary concern cited by respondents revolves around the unsettling news of election rigging, casting a shadow on the democratic process.
Additionally, there is a prevailing sentiment that global forces like Russia and China, fuelled by information spread on social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok, are undermining the United States and its democratic values.
The widespread use of AI, deep fakes, morphed videos, and the proliferation of fake news contribute to the erosion of trust in the democratic system. The sophisticated manipulation of digital content raises fears of misinformation and foreign interference, intensifying concerns about the authenticity and reliability of information, further deepening the unease among respondents. This underscores a broader concern about the stability and fairness of the democratic framework in the country.
Read the entire report for the entire analysis and statistics : A Critical Survey of the Biggest 5 Economies : The Survey Reportika
Q. How satisfied are you with overall performance of your government in addressing economic challenges?
Results:
- Extremely Satisfied: 29,870 (5.97%)
- Satisfied: 50,450 (10.09%)
- Neutral: 46,320 (9.26%)
- Dissatisfied: 93,740 (18.75%)
- Extremely Dissatisfied: 279,620 (55.94%)
Despite a seemingly upbeat quarter marked by impressive economic indicators, including low unemployment rates and substantial market gains, the prevailing sentiment among the people of the United States, especially the youth, points to a significant erosion of faith in the Biden administration’s economic governance.
The dissatisfaction of 74.69% in the Survey Reportika suggests that factors such as rising gas prices, lingering unemployment concerns, recession forecasts, and apprehensions about growing Chinese influence in U.S. markets have collectively shaped this perception.
It’s essential to recognize that public sentiment is nuanced and extends beyond the performance of a single quarter, especially in an election year. The disconnect between macroeconomic figures of this quarter and the everyday economic realities faced by citizens emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive and sustained approach to address concerns and rebuild trust in governance.
Read the entire report for the entire analysis and statistics : A Critical Survey of the Biggest 5 Economies : The Survey Reportika
Country 2: China
Cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen
In China, the survey reveals an extreme dissatisfaction in sentiments regarding the state of democracy. Only 4.6% of respondents, expressed satisfaction. On the contrary, a significant 93.17% of respondents, including both overseas and those within China, expressed dissatisfaction.
Notably, overseas Chinese were more open in expressing their discontent, particularly directed towards the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and single-party system. Conversely, respondents within China, though reluctant, revealed their dissatisfaction. The challenging task of connecting with Chinese residents inside the country required the use of multiple online platforms and the efforts of on-the-ground reporters to facilitate this crucial survey outreach.
The survey results in China paint a concerning picture regarding citizens’ perception of government transparency and accountability. Key factors contributing to a substantial 92.63% dissatisfaction include the mysterious disappearance of prominent figures across politics, sports, and business. The government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, recurrent protests, and a noticeable rise in corruption cases, particularly within the police force, were cited as prominent reasons for the overwhelming disagreement. These concerns, meticulously uncovered by Ij-Reportika through its groundbreaking reports in the past, underscore the imperative role of investigative journalism in exposing and addressing critical societal issues.
Read the entire report for the entire analysis and statistics : A Critical Survey of the Biggest 5 Economies : The Survey Reportika
Q. How satisfied are you with the overall performance of your government in addressing social challenges?
- Extremely Satisfied: 9,375 (2.34%)
- Satisfied: 36,180 (9.04%)
- Neutral: 11,426 (2.86%)
- Dissatisfied: 319,269 (79.82%)
- Extremely Dissatisfied: 23,750 (5.94%)
The survey reveals widespread discontent among Chinese citizens, with 85.76% expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of social challenges. Key grievances include concerns about crime, corruption, and organized crime’s resurgence. Social unrest and protests against unfair treatment, particularly regarding land disputes, have fuelled public disillusionment.
Discrimination based on class, regional elitism, and gender inequality persists, despite legal efforts. The survey reveals widespread dissatisfaction in China, with distinct regional discontent. Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang express concern over mass detentions and cultural persecution, while residents of Hong Kong lament the erosion of freedoms.
In rural areas, particularly in South China and Tibet, dissatisfaction arises from discriminatory policies, limited freedoms, and struggles against land grabs. This regional discontent highlights diverse challenges faced by communities across China, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and inclusive solutions.
Do you think your government is handling diplomatic issues with smaller (economically) and lowest-income states appropriately?
- Strongly Agree: 22,736 (5.68%)
- Agree: 28,420 (7.10%)
- Neither Agree nor Disagree: 22,736 (5.68%)
- Disagree: 34,104 (8.53%)
- Strongly Disagree: 291,924 (72.98%)
The survey reveals a notable divide in opinions on China’s handling of diplomatic issues with smaller and economically vulnerable nations. Only 12.78% of respondents are satisfied, while a significant 81.51% express dissatisfaction. Concerns revolve around reported influence operations in ASEAN nations, bride trafficking from South Asia and ASEAN, Distant Water Fishing, and accusations of debt traps in low-income African countries, including Sri Lanka.
For more detailed insights, refer to our previous reports:
- Chinese Influence Ops in the Philippines: Link
- The BRI Status: A Grand Report on Its Present and Future: Link
- The Chinese Cruel Cobalt Conundrum: Link
- An Investigation into the Dubious Chinese Distant-Water Fishing Fleet (DWF): Link
- A Comprehensive Report on Asian Women Trafficking to China: Link
Download the report to know more : A Critical Survey of the Biggest 5 Economies : The Survey Reportika
Japan
Cities: Tokyo Yokohama Osaka Nagoya
Q. How satisfied are you with overall performance of your government in addressing social challenges?
- Extremely Satisfied: 92000(18.4%)
- Satisfied: 117499 (23.5%)
- Neutral: 69003(13.8%)
- Dissatisfied: 168501 (33.7%)
- Extremely Dissatisfied: 52997(10.6%)
Japan grapples with social challenges as 44.3% of respondents express dissatisfaction with the government’s overall performance. A notable concern is the demographic shift, marked by a rapidly aging population and a declining birthrate, posing challenges for social welfare systems and healthcare. Another significant issue is the increasing Islam and non-Japanese population, triggering debates around cultural assimilation, diversity, and social cohesion. Balancing traditional values with the evolving multicultural landscape is a delicate task and the respondents thus had mixed reactions in the domain of social challenges.
The high satisfaction levels with Japan’s foreign policy decisions, standing at 77.85%, and agreement of 58.43% reflect the sentiments of the respondents in the survey. The survey gauged public opinion on various aspects of the government’s foreign policy, capturing the diverse perspectives of the Japanese population. Respondents seem to appreciate Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s proactive and realistic approach to diplomacy, especially in addressing critical global challenges.
It’s noteworthy that the survey reflects a nuanced understanding among the respondents regarding Japan’s diplomatic endeavors, ranging from its engagement in Africa to navigating complex relations with neighboring countries like South Korea. The cautious yet determined approach to the Taiwan issue and Japan’s proactive stance on including Taiwan in G-7 statements highlights its commitment to the region’s peace and stability.
Despite the challenges and criticisms, both domestic and international, the majority of respondents express confidence in Japan’s foreign policy under Kishida’s leadership. This positive feedback suggests a level of trust in the government’s ability to navigate intricate geopolitical landscapes while upholding the values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
Download the report to read the complete analysis of Japan : A Critical Survey of the Biggest 5 Economies : The Survey Reportika
Germany
Cities: Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne
Download the report to read the complete statistics and analysis of Germany: A Critical Survey of the Biggest 5 Economies : The Survey Reportika
India
Cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai
Read the complete statistics from India here : A Critical Survey of the Biggest 5 Economies : The Survey Reportika
Q1. Satisfaction with the State of Democracy:
The survey findings indicate a robust satisfaction level of 68% regarding the state of democracy in India. Respondents appreciate the three-tier system and the effective counting of votes at the grassroots level, fostering inclusivity. However, concerns were raised about the influence of money power in the democratic process.
Q2. Government Transparency and Accountability:
64.1% of respondents express satisfaction with the transparency and accountability of the government. Positive sentiments are attributed to the Right to Information Act and the existence of a functional media landscape.
Q3. Government Performance in Addressing Economic Challenges:
52.92% of respondents are satisfied with the government’s overall performance in addressing economic challenges. Initiatives such as a robust infrastructure push, digital payments, and support for the startup culture received positive feedback. Some dissatisfaction is voiced over corporate influence among other issues.
Q4. Government Performance in Addressing Social Challenges:
44.93% express satisfaction with the government’s performance in addressing social challenges, including improved unity across social structures, women’s safety, internal security, education, and health infrastructure. Dissatisfaction (39.04%) is centered around concerns of a growing Hindu-Muslim divide, pollution, population, crimes, and gender gap.
Q5. Satisfaction with Foreign Policy Decisions:
The survey indicates high satisfaction with the country’s foreign policy decisions, with 65.36% expressing contentment. Respondents specifically appreciated the successful evacuation of Indians from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, commendable relations with Israel, maintaining diplomatic ties with Palestine, and fostering good relationships with both the USA and Russia. The significant role played by India during evacuations from conflict zones and the unprecedented foreign direct investment, coupled with major multinational corporations like Apple establishing a presence in the country, contributed to the overall positive perception of India’s foreign policy.
Q6. Effectiveness of Global Representation:
70.05% believe that the government effectively represents the country’s interests on the global stage, highlighting decisions such as purchasing Russian oil during sanctions, not joining the Chinese Belt & Road Initiative, and banning multiple Chinese applications due to security and privacy concerns.
Q7. Diplomatic Handling of Smaller Economically and Lowest Income States:
77.78% of respondents believe that the government is handling diplomatic issues with smaller and lowest-income states appropriately, praising India’s proactive diplomatic efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and supporting countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the survey presents a comprehensive view of public sentiment across five major economies— USA, China, Japan, Germany, and India—providing valuable insights into the citizens’ perceptions of governance, democracy, and foreign policy. The diverse responses underscore the nuanced nature of opinions within each nation, reflecting the intricate interplay of cultural, political, and economic factors.
In essence, this comparative study sheds light on the collective consciousness of citizens in these top five economies, providing a rich tapestry of perspectives that policymakers must consider for effective and inclusive governance. The variations in responses underscore the importance of tailored and culturally sensitive policies to address the diverse needs and concerns of the populations in these influential nations.
Reach us out at : Linkedin
