A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center sheds light on how people around the world perceive United States President Joe Biden and American democracy. The comprehensive analysis covers public opinion from 34 countries across different regions. The survey, which ran from January 5th to May 21st, 2024, collected responses from a total of 40,566 adults.

According to the study, internationally, Joe Biden is viewed more favorably than his predecessor, former President Donald Trump. In the 34 nations polled, a median of 43% have confidence in Biden to handle international affairs, while only 28% have confidence in Trump. This gap in ratings is particularly significant in European countries, with Biden's confidence rating exceeding Trump's by at least 40 percentage points in Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden.

However, there are exceptions to this trend. Eight nations surveyed show no statistically significant difference in ratings of Biden and Trump. Additionally, in Hungary and Tunisia, Trump receives more positive reviews than Biden, although neither leader receives particularly high marks in these countries.

Despite Biden receiving higher ratings globally, his approval has decreased since last year in 14 out of 21 countries with available trend data. Australia, Israel, Japan, Poland, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom experienced double-digit decreases in approval ratings for the current US president.

The survey also examined public opinion on how Biden is handling major international issues. Responses were divided when it came to his approach to climate change and global economic problems. Around 39% of respondents across the 34 countries approved of Biden's handling of the war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as his approach towards China.

Within predominantly Muslim nations, large majorities in Malaysia, Tunisia, and Turkey disapprove of Biden's handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Opinions on this issue in Bangladesh were more evenly divided.

In terms of overall attitudes towards the United States, the survey found that a median of 54% of respondents across the nations polled hold a favorable view of the US, while 31% have a negative opinion. However, criticisms of American democracy were common in many countries. Most respondents believe that the US used to be a good model for other countries but has not been in recent years. Around 21% considered American democracy currently a good example, while 22% believe it has never been a good model.

It is worth noting that in eight of the 13 countries with available trend data, fewer people view American democracy as a good example compared to the previous survey conducted in spring 2021.

The Pew Research Center survey provides valuable insights into global perceptions of US President Joe Biden and American democracy. The findings highlight the varying opinions across different countries and shed light on the evolving international views towards the United States.