Transcript Slide 1

2
Methodology
Transatlantic Trends is an annual survey of public opinion, which started in 2002. This
year’s survey, commissioned to TNS Opinion, consists of a random sample of
approximately 1,000 phone or face-to-face interviews in each country (1,500 in
Russia) conducted between June 2 and June 27, 2012. For results based on national
samples, the maximum margin of error is +/- 3%, for results based on the total
European sample the margin of error is +/-1%, at a 95% confidence level. Total
sample size is 15,547.
Year
Total Coverage
European Coverage
2002
2003
U.S. + E6
U.S. + E7
France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom
France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom, Portugal
France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom, Portugal,
Turkey, Slovakia, Spain
France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom, Portugal,
Turkey, Slovakia, Spain, Bulgaria, Romania
2004-2005 U.S. + E10
2006-2010 U.S. + E12
2011
2012
France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom, Portugal,
U.S. + E13
Turkey, Slovakia, Spain, Bulgaria, Romania, Sweden
France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom, Portugal,
U.S. + E13 + Russia Turkey, Slovakia, Spain, Bulgaria, Romania, Sweden
EU12 includes all EU member countries in our sample
Key Findings
• Transatlantic majorities approve of U.S. President Barack Obama‘s
foreign policy, but Mitt Romney is largely unknown in Europe
• Americans and Europeans feel transatlantic relationship is more
important than Asia
• Growing numbers on both sides of the Atlantic say they are personally
affected by the economic crisis
• Two-in-three Europeans say EU membership was good for their
economy — but 57% say the Euro‘s impact has been negative
• Americans and Europeans agree intervention in Libya was right
— but want to stay out of Syria
• Majorities in U.S. and Europe hold unfavorable views of Russia
• Turks warm slightly to U.S. and Europe — but still hold unfavorable
views
4
Overview
1.Transatlantic Relations and Global Views
2.Economy and Eurocrisis
3.Obama’s First Term and the 2012 Elections
4.Transatlantic Security
5. Russia
5
State of EU-U.S. Relations Seen As Good or Mixed
50
46
40
Good
45
44
43
Mixed
Percent
Bad
30
20
10
7
5
0
EU12
U.S.
Q2.1: Now I would like to ask you some questions about the relations between different countries and organizations. For each, can you
tell me if the relations between those countries and organizations are good, bad, or mixed that is, good in some respects and bad in
others? How about the United States and European Union?
6
State of EU-U.S. Relations Seen as Good or Mixed
60
Good
Mixed
Bad
56
50
46
Percent
40
45
44
43
35
30
20
10
7
5
0
EU12
U.S.
5
U.K.
Q2.1: Now I would like to ask you some questions about the relations between different countries and organizations. For each, can you
tell me if the relations between those countries and organizations are good, bad, or mixed that is, good in some respects and bad in
others? How about the United States and European Union?
7
Majorities on Both Sides of the Atlantic
Want Strong U.S. and EU Leadership in World Affairs
90
80
Percent (Approval)
70
79
80
79
73
76
73
68
64
72
72
69
63
55
60
55
54
52
2011
2012
45
50
36
40
39
37
36
36
30
20
U.S. desire for EU leadership in world affairs
EU desire for U.S. leadership in world affairs
10
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Q1a/1b: How desirable is it that the United States/European Union exert strong leadership in world affairs? Very desirable, somewhat
desirable, somewhat undesirable, or very undesirable?
8
Majorities on Both Sides of the Atlantic
Want Strong U.S. and EU Leadership in World Affairs
90
80
79
80
79
73
72
67
70
64
Percent
60
55
50
76
72
68
65
60
54
53
50
48
45
36
40
73
71
39
37
36
74
73
72
64
61
55
55
69
66
63
54
48
63
62
55
52
36
30
20
EU desire for U.S. leadership in world affairs
U.S. desire for EU leadership in world affairs
10
U.K. desire for U.S. leadership in world affairs
U.K. desire for EU leadership in world affairs
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Q1a/1b: How desirable is it that the United States/European Union exert strong leadership in world affairs? Very desirable, somewhat
desirable, somewhat undesirable, or very undesirable?
9
Transatlantic Relationship is More Important Than Asia
EU12 Attitudes
70
60
60
61
50
Percent
50
Percent
U.S. Attitudes
70
40
30
55
40
34
30
30
20
20
10
10
0
0
U.S. is More
Important
Asia is More
Important
EU is More
Important
Asia is More
Important
Q13a/b: Generally, in terms of [COUNTRY’s/U.S.] national interests today, which of the following is more important to [COUNTRY/U.S.]: the
United States/the European Union, or the countries of Asia, such as China, Japan and South Korea?
10
Transatlantic Relationship and Asia—by Country
70
68
The United States is more important
67
64
60
63
61
The countries of Asia are more important
59
58
57
50
55
54
52
49
45
43
Percent
40
38
30
20
31
30
40
38
33
31
27
25
46
27
23
21
29
25
24
10
0
Q13a/b: Generally, in terms of [COUNTRY’s] national interests today, which of the following is more important to [COUNTRY]: the United
States, or the countries of Asia, such as China, Japan and South Korea?
11
Mixed Views on China as Economic Opportunity or Threat…
70
China is more of an economic opportunity
60
China is more of an economic threat
65
59
54
50
51
Percent
42
38
34
30
20
30
56
58
50
47
40
58
56
45
42
43
43
43
40
39
36
39
36
32
29
24
30
27
27
25
23
10
0
Q14: There are different views about the rise of China. In economic terms, some people see China as more of an opportunity for new
markets and investment, while others see it as a threat to our jobs and economic security. Which view is closer to your own?
12
… and on China as Military Threat
100
90
6
43
5
51
7
8
7
49
50
52
3
56
4
56
8
17
53
80
10
21
22
56
11
21
21
62
46
46
70
17
55
50
61
65
Percent
60
50
40
51
44
44
42
41
41
30
20
40
39
35
33
28
Don't know/ Refuse to answer
China is not a military threat
10
38
27
24
22
14
China is a military threat
0
Q15: There are also different views about China’s military power. Some people see China as a military threat, while others do not. Which
view is closer to your own?
13
Overview
1.Transatlantic Relations and Global Views
2.Economy and Eurocrisis
3.Obama’s First Term and the 2012 Elections
4.Transatlantic Security
5. Russia
14
Large and Growing Majorities Affected by Economic Crisis
90
8989
80
70
89
80
88
86
83
78
80
2011
82
79
75
71
67
73
70
69
65
61
Percent Affected
60
55
50
2012
58
54
49
56
53
5253
4545
40
36
30
31
20
10
Q44: And regarding the extent to which you or your family has been personally affected by the current economic crisis, would you say that
your family’s financial situation has been… greatly affected, somewhat affected, not really affected, or not affected at all?
15
Widespread Disapproval of Governments’ Economic Policies
100
25
90
33
23
24
72
71
34
30
40
42
42
40
46
68
43
46
74
55
80
70
Percent
60
73
66
65
65
58
50
57
56
56
52
52
46
40
38
30
Approve
20
Disapprove
31
24
10
0
Q4a.4/Q4b.2: Do you approve or disapprove of the way [COUNTRY´S] government has been handling the following issues? Dealing with
[COUNTRY´S] economy
16
Large Majorities Say Economic System is Unfair
100
90
64
54
73
71
77
76
82
72
50
80
90
75
89
86
72
74
85
70
Percent
60
50
Most of the benefits of our system go to a few
40
The economic system works fairly for everybody
30
20
10
37
35
30
23
23
21
18
16
16
14
14
13
8
0
8
6
6
Q42: Some people say that our economic system works fairly for everybody; other people say that most of the benefits of our system go
to a few. Which view is closer to your own?
17
Broad Support for Decreasing Government Spending
100
90
80
70
Percent
60
50
8
7
18
25
14
16
14
23
19
6
33
9
31
23
15
12
39
31
11
37
23
12
31
65
17
11
36
70
29
18
56
45
65
38
58
55
55
53
50
40
47
42
Increase spending
44
40
39
30
20
10
Keep current levels
of spending
Decrease spending
28
26
21
20
0
Q35: These days, some governments are cutting spending to reduce their debt. Other governments are maintaining or increasing their
spending to stimulate economic growth. What is your view? Should the [COUNTRY] government…
18
Effect of EU Membership on the Economy Seen as Mostly Good …
100
90
24
25
25
80
70
Percent
60
28
17
73
31
52
34
21
69
69
67
37
26
67
62
61
40
20
40
17
50
30
38
Bad
58
56
53
50
47
44
40
Good
10
0
Q37: Generally speaking, do you think that [COUNTRY]’s membership in the European Union [IN EU COUNTRIES: has been / TURKEY:
would be] a good thing or a bad thing for the [COUNTRY] economy?
19
… But Effect of Euro on National Economy Seen as Negative
90
Percent saying effect is/would be negative
89
80
70
60
50
40
84
2011
77
2012
71
67
52
57
54
57
53
58
55
53
46
54
52
51
46
49
45
47
45
4645
35
30
30
3131
20
10
Q38a: And how about the euro? Generally speaking, do you think that using the euro in [COUNTRY] [WITHIN THE EUROZONE: has been/
OUTSIDE THE EUROZONE: would be] a good thing or a bad thing for the [COUNTRY] economy?
20
Euro
Critics
to Stay
in National
the Eurozone
ChartStill,
2D (1):
Effect
of Prefer
the Euro
on the
Economy
90
40
country sample
Percent of total
Percent
80
70
30
60
50
Good
34
71
30
54
55
53
45
20
40
30
33
The Euro has been bad for the economy but want to continue using89
84
Bad the Euro
The Euro has been bad for the economy and want to return to using
previous currency
20
30
27
44
43
57
26
52
51
47
45
57
42
19
41
21
42
35
53
26
45
37
19
19
17
31
26
20
10
10
14
23
14
9
0
7
0
Portugal
France
Spain
Italy
Netherlands
Germany
Slovakia
Q38b: [SPLIT – was asked only to those who thought the euro had been bad for the economy in Q38a] Some people say that
[COUNTRY]
should
leave
euro-zone
and
return to
our previous
currency
while
others say [WITHIN
that [COUNTRY]
should continue
Q38a:
And how
about
the the
euro?
Generally
speaking,
dousing
you think
that using
the euro
in [COUNTRY]
THE EUROZONE:
has
usingOUTSIDE
the euro?THE
Which
one is closer
to be]
youra own
This slide
reports
absolute country percentages.
been/
EUROZONE:
would
goodopinion?
thing or NOTE:
a bad thing
for the
[COUNTRY]
21
Germany’s Merkel Gets Top Marks for Handling of Economic Crisis
80
70
74
66
63
Percent (Approval)
60
50
German Chancellor Angela Merkel
The European Union
Own country
74
68
64
63
57
55
61
58
61
58
57
52
49
40
43
42
42
30
23
55
54
5252
47
40
46
40
35
30
20
52
48
35 34 34
32
25
24
32 33
2627
10
0
Q4b.2/Q40.1/Q40.2: Do you approve or disapprove of the way [German Chancellor Angela Merkel/the European Union/[COUNTRY]]
have been handling the economic crisis in Europe?
22
Europeans Prefer to Retain Authority Over National Finances
80
79
EU should have more authority over member states' economic and budgetary policies
75
70
Each member state should retain this authority for itself
65
60
59
58
58
57
57
57
56
50
53
53
Percent
49
40
38
30
10
40
37
31
20
15
18
43
42
31
34
45
33
21
0
Q39: Some people say that because of recent economic difficulties, the EU should have more authority over member states’ economic and
budgetary policies. Other people say that each member state should retain this authority for itself. Which view is closer to your own?
23
Europeans Support Their Countries Contributing
to Special EU Assistance Fund
70
60
66
65
65
60
59
57
Percent (Approval)
50
56
54
49
40
46
42
36
30
31
20
10
0
Q41: As you may know, the European Union has recently created a fund to assist member states that find themselves in budgetary
difficulty. To what extent do you approve or disapprove of [COUNTRY] making a contribution to this fund? Do you…
24
Overview
1.Transatlantic Relations and Global Views
2.Economy and Eurocrisis
3.Obama’s First Term and the 2012 Elections
4.Transatlantic Security
5. Russia
25
Europeans Want Strong U.S. Leadership, and Really Like Obama
90
83
78
80
70
U.S. leadership in world affairs
desirable
64
Approve U.S. President's
handling of international affairs
Percent (Approval)
60
50
40
75
55
55
54
2009
2010
2011
71
52
45
38
36
39
37
36
36
18
19
20
2006
2007
2008
30
30
21
24
20
10
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2012
Q1a/Q3: How desirable is it that the United States exert strong leadership in world affairs? Very desirable, somewhat desirable,
somewhat undesirable, or very undesirable?
Do you approve or disapprove of the way the President of the United States Barack Obama (2002-2008: George Bush) is handling
international policies?
26
Britons Want Strong U.S. Leadership, and Really Like Obama
90
80
Percent (Approval)
70
72
64
60
55
50
40
European desire for U.S. leadership in world
affairs
European approval U.S. President's handling
of international affairs
British desire for U.S. leadership in world
affairs
British approval of U.S. President's handling
of international affairs
54
53
48
45
38
30
35
50
36
39
83
82
78
74
72
75
74
71
67
66
64
62
55
55
54
52
48
37
36
36
20
19
16
20
17
2007
2008
32
27
30
30
20
21
24
18
10
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2009
2010
2011
2012
Q1a/Q3: How desirable is it that the United States exert strong leadership in world affairs? Very desirable, somewhat desirable,
somewhat undesirable, or very undesirable?
Do you approve or disapprove of the way the President of the United States Barack Obama (2002-2008: George Bush) is handling
international policies?
27
Overall Approval of Obama's Handling of International Policies
100
90
92
91
90
90
80
79
70
79
79
2009
88
85
81
74
69
Percent
60
83
2012
82
72
71
71
67
66
55
50
51
40
71
58
57
54
55
49
50
42
30
26
20
10
Q3: Do you approve or disapprove of the way the President of the United States Barack Obama (2002-2008: George Bush) is handling
international policies?
28
…and Approval of U.S. President Obama by Policy
80
EU12
U.S.
Turkey
Russia
70
71
66
Percent (Approval)
60
50
55 53
55
49 50
48
40
30
36 38
20
38
32
32
23
24
21
10
0
Managing Relations
with Russia
Stabilizing Afghanistan Fighting International Handling Negotiations
Terrorism
with Iran Concerning its
Nuclear Program
Q4a.1/3/4/5/6: Do you approve or disapprove of the way the President of the United States Barack Obama has been handling the
following issues? How about….?
29
...and Approval of U.S. President Obama by Policy
80
70
EU12
U.S.
Turkey
Russia
U.K.
Percent (Approval)
70
66
60
50
71
55 53
51
55
50
48
49 50
47
40
30
36 38
20
38
32
32
24
23
21
10
0
Managing Relations
with Russia
Stabilizing Afghanistan Fighting International Handling Negotiations
Terrorism
with Iran Concerning its
Nuclear Program
Q4a.1/3/4/5/6: Do you approve or disapprove of the way the President of the United States Barack Obama has been handling the
following issues? How about….?
30
U.S. Presidential Candidates Perceived Very Differently
100
90
3
40
38
6
49
7
11
80
82
70
Percent
60
39
57
50
40
44
30
20
Don't Know / Refuse to answer
Unfavorable
Favorable
23
10
0
U.S.
EU12
U.S.
Mitt Romney
EU12
Barack Obama
Q17.1/Q17.2: To what extent is your view of the following candidates for president of the United States favorable or unfavorable?
31
If Europeans could vote for the U.S. President...
90
89
87
Mitt Romney
85
80
82
79
77
75
70
75
73
60
Percent
Barack Obama
63
50
51
47
40
40
35
30
27
20
16
10
0
11
2
5
7
5
4
8
9
9
10
6
5
12
8
Q18.b: Now, thinking of the U.S. Presidential election this year: if you had a chance to vote in this election, who would you vote for?
[NOTE: Russia included.]
32
Overview
1.Transatlantic Relations and Global Views
2.Economy and Eurocrisis
3.Obama’s First Term and the 2012 Elections
4.Transatlantic Security
5. Russia
33
Mixed Views on Future of U.S.-EU Partnership
100
90
80
15
46
46
43
39
26
34
37
42
33
40
35
51
33
31
70
Percent
60
50
40
30
29
51
9
43
24
14
30
0
34
32
18
38
41
31
25
40
35
34
33
30
20
10
32
28
Should take a more independent approach
Should remain about the same
Should become closer
27
25
25
23
21
19
Q9: Do you think that the partnership in security and diplomatic affairs between the United States and the European Union should become
closer, should remain about the same, or should take a more independent approach?
34
NATO is Still Essential for Country's Security
80
70
69
Percent Saying NATO is essential
62
60
56
60
61
60
60
62
57
50
53
55
55
59
62
60
61
59
62
62
58
56
52
44
40
35
EU
30
38
38
30
U.S.
20
37
35
Turkey
10
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Q11: Some people say that NATO is still essential to our country's security. Others say it is no longer essential. Which of these views is
closer to your own?
35
NATO Is Still Essential for Country's Security
80
70
76
70
69
Percent saying NATO is essential
62
60
56
53
65
60
57
72
62
61
55
64
60
68
60
59
62
61
71
68
69
60
59
62
58
56
37
38
2011
2012
55
52
50
44
40
35
38
35
30
30
EU
U.S.
20
Turkey
U.K.
10
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Q11: Some people say that NATO is still essential to our country's security. Others say it is no longer essential. Which of these views is
closer to your own?
36
NATO is Still Essential for Country's Security — by Country
100
90
7
7
23
22
Percent
60
6
13
29
5
35
3
37
2
42
10
15
23
39
40
24
39
71
71
68
66
61
60
60
58
56
56
52
45
40
20
9
35
50
30
18
27
17
80
70
15
38
Don't know/ Refuse to answer
No longer essential
Still essential
10
0
Q11: Some people say that NATO is still essential to our country's security. Others say it is no longer essential. Which of these views is
closer to your own?
37
Most Want to Keep Current Defense Spending
100
90
5
34
5
42
6
47
80
8
7
43
42
11
8
54
46
7
14
20
17
12
19
51
45
70
45
51
29
Percent
40
30
34
56
49
60
50
29
Increase
51
44
56
43
52
45
45
45
39
38
37
34
32
30
25
20
10
Keep at the
current
level
Decrease
21
17
16
13
0
Q36a: And how about defense spending? Do you think the [COUNTRY] government should increase defense spending, keep defense
spending at the current level, or decrease defense spending?
38
Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya: Was Intervention the Right Thing to Do?
70
68
Percent Saying Intervention was right
60
In Iraq
In Afghanistan
In Libya
62
58
56
58
555656
53
50
45
40
50 49 49
49
47
42
39
53
37
49
46
4242
48
42
37
30
38
48
46
40
42
4041
31
31
29 28
28
2627
26
24 23
20
1920
15
12 11
10
0
Q32.1/2/3: In recent years, there have been a number of military interventions in other countries. Taking everything into consideration, in
each of the following cases, do you think the intervention was the right thing to do or not the right thing to do?
39
Broad Agreement Against Intervention in Syria
100
28
90
80
70
Percent
60
11
70
15
69
68
32
20
19
68
67
63
33
33
59
59
50
20
58
45
32
33
35
57
56
55
44
38
50
40
30
38
48
48
Should intervene
Should stay out completely
10
0
Q28: Recently, there has been discussion of the desirability of intervening in Syria, where the government has been using military force to
suppress an opposition movement which is fighting the Syrian government. In this situation, what do you think [COUNTRY] should do?
40
Majorities Want to Withdraw Troops in Afghanistan
100
90
1
2
16
2
16
14
2
21
2
18
2
Percent
70
16
26
22
60
26
5
2
4
2
22
26
22
34
11
23
34
22
21
Increase
21
37
26
18
50
12
23
40
20
45
33
24
30
2
8
23
80
21
2
2
Keep at
current level
Reduce
24
62
61
55
53
16
52
51
50
50
44
43
43
39
35
26
10
Withdraw all
22
0
Q34a/b: As you may know, [COUNTRY/the Netherlands] currently has troops/police trainers stationed in Afghanistan. In your view, should
[COUNTRY/the Netherlands] increase the number of troops/police trainers in Afghanistan, keep its troops/police trainers at its current
level, reduce the number of its troops/police trainers or should it withdraw all troops/police trainers from Afghanistan?
41
Widespread Pessimism about Prospects for Stability
80
EU12
70
U.S.
Percent saying they feel pessimistic
70
64
60
56
55
50
40
69
50
47
46
55
40
30
20
10
0
In Egypt
In Libya
In Iraq
In Afghanistan
In Syria
Q33.1/2/3/4/5: And thinking about the future, do you feel optimistic or pessimistic about the prospects of stability in…
42
Widespread Pessimism for Prospects of Stability
70
Percent saying they feel pessimistic
70
EU12
60
U.K.
57
51
40
66
56
55
In Afghanistan
In Syria
50
47
46
69
64
55
50
40
U.S.
70
42
30
20
10
0
In Egypt
In Libya
In Iraq
Q33.1/2/3/4/5: And thinking about the future, do you feel optimistic or pessimistic about the prospects of stability in…
43
What to Do About Iran's Nuclear Program?
35
34
33
30
U.S.
Turkey
Russia
28
25
Percent
EU12
32
27
20
20
18
15
10
18
16
12
13
13
10 10
5
6
8
7
4
5
6
0
Offer economic Impose economic Provide support to
incentives
sanctions
opponents of
current
government
Take military
action
Accept Iran could
acquire nuclear
weapons
Q21: As you may know, negotiations to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons are under way. There are different ways to
address Iran’s acquiring nuclear weapons. Which of the following do you think is the best option?
44
What to Do About Iran's Nuclear Program?
40
38
35
30
34
33
U.S.
Turkey
Russia
U.K.
32
28
25
Percent
EU12
27
27
20
20
15
10
16
12
18
18
13
10 10
5
6
0
Offer economic
incentives
13
12
Impose economic Provide support to
sanctions
opponents of
current
government
7
6
5
4
Take military
action
6
8
8
Accept Iran could
acquire nuclear
weapons
Q21: As you may know, negotiations to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons are under way. There are different ways to address
Iran’s acquiring nuclear weapons. Which of the following do you think is the best option?
45
Broad Approval of Responsibility to Protect Civilians from Violence
90
80
70
Percent (Approval)
60
81
76
75
72
71
69
67
67
66
64
62
62
56
50
40
42
42
40
30
20
10
0
Q27: According to the United Nations, members of the international community, including [COUNTRY], have the responsibility to protect
civilians in other countries from violence, including violence committed by their own government. Please tell me if you strongly agree,
somewhat agree, somewhat disagree, strongly disagree that [COUNTRY] has this responsibility?
46
Is War Sometimes Necessary to Obtain Justice?
100
90
84
82
80
78
78
74
74
77
71
75
74
33
32
35
34
2011
2012
Percent (Agreement)
70
60
50
48
47
49
42
41
35
40
36
34
29
30
27
35
23
27
EU12
20
U.S.
10
Turkey
0
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Q43.2: Please tell me to what extent you agree or disagree with each of the following: Under some conditions, war is necessary to obtain
justice
47
Is War Sometimes Necessary to Obtain Justice?
90
80
84
78
78
74
74
64
65
59
60
50
74
69
70
Percent (Agreement)
82
77
75
74
64
64
32
33
35
34
2011
2012
71
62
61
55
48
47
49
42
41
40
35
36
34
29
30
35
27
27
23
20
EU12
10
U.S.
Turkey
U.K.
2008
2009
0
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2010
Q43.2: Please tell me to what extent you agree or disagree with each of the following: Under some conditions, war is necessary to obtain
justice
48
Overview
1.Transatlantic Relations and Global Views
2.Economy and Eurocrisis
3.Obama’s First Term and the 2012 Elections
4.Transatlantic Security
5. Russia
49
Opinions of Russia Are Mostly Unfavorable…
90
88
2011
80
84
2012
78
Percent (Favorable)
70
60
64
61
59
50
58
56
52
40
44
43
50
50
43
40
38
30
50
48
48
42
42
41
37
37
32
31
20
33
33
32
31
23
10
Q 5.4: Please tell me if you have a very favorable, somewhat favorable, somewhat unfavorable or very unfavorable opinion of Russia?
50
… But Russians’ Views of Others Are Mostly Favorable
80
70
Favorable
71
65
60
64
63
61
50
Percent
Unfavorable
53
50
40
48
45
41
35
30
30
20
19
21
37
30
26
24
10
0
Germany Japan
EU
China
Turkey
South
Korea
U.S.
Israel
Iran
Q5.1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13: Please tell me if you have a very favorable, somewhat favorable, somewhat unfavorable or very unfavorable
opinion of...?
51
Russians See Broad Basis for Cooperation on International Problems
With the U.S.
100
17
11
90
80
With the EU
18
15
38
39
Percent
21
65
63
60
56
52
45
14
23
60
40
21
22
22
70
50
With China
Don't Know / Refuse to Answer
30
So different that cooperating on
international problems is impossible
Common enough to cooperate on
international problems
20
10
0
Common
Values
Common
Interests
Common
Values
Common
Interests
Common
Values
Common
Interests
Q6a/b / 7a/b / 8a/b: Some people say that Russia and the US/European Union/China have enough common values/interests to be able
to cooperate on international problems. Others say that Russia and the US/European Union/China have such different values/interests
that cooperating on international problems is impossible. Which view is closer to your own?
52
Russians Confident in President, Less so in Duma and Courts
70
69
60
67
65
62
56
Percent (Confidence)
50
46
40
41
37
36
The state
Duma
The courts
and the
justice
system
30
20
10
0
The
The military The church Television Newspapers Internet
President
news
news
sources
The police
Q45.1: I would like to ask you a question about how much confidence you have in certain institutions in Russia. For each of the following
institutions, please tell me if you tend to be very confident, somewhat confident, not too confident, not at all confident. How about …
53
Key Findings
• Transatlantic majorities approve of U.S. President Barack Obama‘s
foreign policy, but Mitt Romney is largely unknown in Europe
• Americans and Europeans feel transatlantic relationship is more
important than Asia
• Growing numbers on both sides of the Atlantic say they are personally
affected by the economic crisis
• Two-in-three Europeans say EU membership was good for their
economy — but 57% say the Euro‘s impact has been negative
• Americans and Europeans agree intervention in Libya was right
— but want to stay out of Syria
• Majorities in U.S. and Europe hold unfavorable views of Russia
• Turks warm slightly to U.S. and Europe — but still hold unfavorable
views
54
For more information about methodology, specific
countries, and the full top-line data set please visit
www.transatlantictrends.org
Follow GMF at:
www.twitter.com/gmfus
www.facebook.com/gmfus
55
1: Majorities in U.S. and EU Have Favorable Opinions of Each
Other
36
34
Turkey
46
U.K.
76
57
U.S.
84
62
Netherlands
Russia
50
78
64
Sweden
64
Spain
64
View of EU
67
72
67
Portugal
74
68
65
67
Poland
EU12
74
69
Italy
View of U.S.
76
71
France
Slovakia
72
62
Germany
81
70
75
84
84
Romania
Bulgaria
88
68
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Percent
Q5.1/5.2: Please tell me if you have a very favorable, somewhat favorable, somewhat unfavorable or very unfavorable opinion of the
United States/the European Union?
56
1: Desire for U.S. Leadership
100
90
80
14
27
32
38
42
38
39
42
59
48
53
31
44
82
59
43
64
70
Percent
60
65
62
60
50
59
57
56
56
52
49
40
39
30
Undesirable
20
Desirable
39
38
37
26
19
10
0
Q1a: How desirable is it that the United States exert strong leadership in world affairs? Very desirable, somewhat desirable, somewhat
undesirable, or very undesirable?
1: Desire for EU Leadership
100
90
80
70
12
86
22
23
24
23
11
78
21
24
21
22
20
76
74
73
73
71
70
60
Percent
31
69
69
67
65
25
36
44
55
63
55
50
40
30
Undesirable
20
Desirable
37
29
10
0
Q1b: How desirable is it that the European Union exert strong leadership in world affairs? Very desirable, somewhat desirable, somewhat
undesirable, or very undesirable?
58
1: Favorable Opinions of the U.S. vs. Germany
90
80
90
84
70
86
84
83
81
88
84
78
76
76
7474
74
70
67
Percent
60
50
72
60
53
80
79
74
70
68
67
65
71
62
55
50
48
40
34
30
20
10
Favorability of U.S.
Favorability of Germany
0
Q5.1/ 5.10: Please tell me if you have a very favorable, somewhat favorable, somewhat unfavorable or very unfavorable opinion of...?
59
1: U.S. Opinion of the Rest of the World
100
90
23
32
23
80
20
31
30
46
48
43
42
52
46
39
71
70
Percent
60
68
67
63
50
59
57
53
40
44
41
41
30
20
Unfavorable
10
Favorable
20
0
Q5.2-5.13: Please tell me if you have a very favorable, somewhat favorable, somewhat unfavorable or very unfavorable opinion of...?
60
100
90
1
22
1: Do the U.S. and EU Share Enough Common Values to
Cooperate?
2
24
2
25
Percent
4
26
77
75
73
70
11
6
26
5
28
6
28
19
18
80
70
11
10
24
8
9
28
28
16
5
38
25
70
60
70
69
68
66
66
65
50
63
59
57
40
30
Don't know/ Refuse to answer
20
Such different values that cooperating on international problems is impossible
10
Enough common values to cooperate on international problems
0
Q6a: Some people say that the United States and the European Union [IN RUSSIA: Russia and the United States], have enough common
values to be able to cooperate on international problems. Others say that the US and the EU [IN RUSSIA: Russia and the US] have such
different values that cooperating on international problems is impossible. Which view is closer to your own?
61
100
90
1: Do the U.S. and EU Share Enough Common Interests to
Cooperate?
2
23
4
22
8
2
27
20
Percent
7
22
15
80
70
15
75
74
72
71
70
60
70
11
6
27
21
68
67
9
27
64
4
31
5
31
12
64
50
6
40
25
64
16
63
25
59
54
40
30
Don't know/ Refuse to answer
20
Such different interests that cooperating on international problems is impossible
10
Enough common interests to cooperate on international problems
0
Q6b: Some people say that the United States and the European Union [IN RUSSIA: Russia and the United States] have enough common
interests to be able to cooperate on international problems. Others say that the US and the EU [IN RUSSIA: Russia and the US] have
such different interests that cooperating on international problems is impossible. Which view is closer to your own?
62
1: Do the U.S. and EU Share Enough Common Values with China to
Cooperate?
100
21
22
90
7
9
41
45
22
5
54
8
9
56
55
80
Percent
70
23
25
56
54
13
24
23
20
54
51
35
11
41
43
6
8
63
62
31
30
2
71
46
60
50
40
30
20
10
52
46
44
41
37
36
36
35
35
33
Don't know/ Refuse to answer
Such different values that cooperating on international problems is impossible
Enough common values to cooperate on international problems
33
28
0
Q8a: Some people say that [IN EUROPE: the European Union and China/ IN US: the United States and China/ IN TURKEY: Turkey and China/
IN RUSSIA: Russia and China] have enough common values to be able to cooperate on international problems. Others say that the [IN
EUROPE: the European Union and China/ IN US: the United States and China/ IN TURKEY: Turkey and China/ IN RUSSIA: Russia and China]
have such different values that cooperating on international problems is impossible. Which view is closer to your own?
63
1: Do the U.S and EU Share Enough Common Interests with China
to Cooperate?
100
14
90
80
7
33
Percent
50
40
30
20
10
8
9
47
45
21
13
2
58
9
26
24
52
46
24
70
60
22
10
21
59
53
34
6
11
2
66
56
43
39
23
45
65
60
53
46
46
41
40
39
39
37
37
36
35
34
32
32
Don't know/ Refuse to answer
Such different interests that cooperating on international problems is impossible
Enough common interests to cooperate on international problems
0
Q8b: Some people say that [IN EUROPE: the European Union and China/ IN US: the United States and China/ IN TURKEY: Turkey and
China/ IN RUSSIA: Russia and China] have enough common interests to be able to cooperate on international problems. Others say that
[IN EUROPE: the European Union and China/ IN US: the United States and China/ IN TURKEY: Turkey and China/ IN RUSSIA: Russia and
China] have such different interests that cooperating on international problems is impossible. Which view is closer to your own?
64
3: Approve Very Much of Obama's Handling of International
Policies
30
29
Percent
25
26
20
2010
27
2011
2012
21
17
15
14
10
11
12
7
5
U.S.
EU
Turkey
Q3: Do you approve or disapprove of the way the President of the United States Barack Obama is handling international policies?
Approve very much, approve somewhat, disapprove somewhat, disapprove very much…
65
3: Perception of Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney
100
9
90
80
16
16
17
22
40
25
22
70
22
23
36
39
42
36
40
49
52
47
51
49
20
Percent
60
11
50
24
23
17
40
30
31
19
66
63
61
59
29
18
25
24
58
44
49
20
10
Unfavorable
40
38
Favorable
Don’t Know
38
34
33
32
30
28
26
6
0
Q17.1: To what extent is your view of the following candidates for president of the United States favorable or unfavorable? Mitt Romney
66
4: Concern About Iran Acquiring Nuclear Weapons
90
87
80
70
80
89
86
83
79
84
76
79
76
82
75
75
2011
81
80
76
72
71
74
67
Percent
60
74
68
65
64
2012
71
64
64
61
54
50
48
40
38
30
20
10
Q20: Thinking about Iran, are you concerned or not concerned about Iran acquiring nuclear weapons? Please tell me if you are very
much concerned, somewhat concerned, a little concerned, or not at all concerned?
67
4: Low Support for Military Action Against Iran
40
35
Percent of total country sample
35
Take military action against Iran
when all options are available
35
30
Take military action against Iran
with other options exhausted
25
20
15
18
10
11
7
5
4
0
U.S.
EU12
Turkey
10
5
Russia
Q21: As you may know, negotiations to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons are under way. There are different ways to address
Iran’s acquiring nuclear weapons. Which of the following do you think is the best option?
Q22: And now imagine that all of these non-military options have been tried and the only option left to prevent Iran from acquiring
nuclear weapons is the use of military force. In that case, should the [European Union\ United States\Russia\Turkey] take military action
against Iran, or should [it/they] simply accept that Iran could acquire nuclear weapons? [SPLIT: Q22 was only asked to those who chose
to offer economic incentives, impose economic sanctions, or provide support to opponents of the Iranian government in Q21]
NOTE: This slide reports absolute country percentages.
68
4: Approval of Israeli Strikes Against Iran
80
Approve
70
72
Disapprove
70
66
60
65
62
60
Percent
50
52
40
30
32
31
27
20
10
21
16
18
19
Poland
Russia
0
Turkey
Bulgaria
Slovakia
Romania
U.S.
Q24: Israel may take military action to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Would you approve or disapprove of Israel taking
military action? [NOTE: this was only asked in these seven countries.]
69
80
4: Approval of Intervention in Syria in Light of Russian or Chinese
Veto
Support intervention despite veto
70
71
68
Oppose intervention in the case of veto
68
64
60
63
Percent
50
53
40
37
30
20
22
10
9
12
13
12
0
Slovakia
Bulgaria
Romania
Poland
Turkey
U.S.
Q31a: As you may know, Russia and China may oppose intervention in Syria and can prevent any future United Nations action with
their veto. If Russia or China should veto a future United Nations intervention, should [COUNTRY] ignore this veto and still intervene in
Syria? [NOTE: this was only asked in these seven countries.]
70
4: Will the Post-Arab Spring Change Relations?
100
19
90
80
7
Percent
21
18
14
24
27
60
33
23
46
40
16
44
26
31
20
18
21
48
41
40
30
19
31
70
50
24
Don't know/ Refuse
Get worse
Stay the same
Improve
28
19
10
19
16
15
Poland
Slovakia
11
0
Turkey
U.S.
Bulgaria
Romania
Russia
Q25: As you may know, recent popular uprisings in a number of Middle Eastern and North African countries have removed their
governments from power and are now in the process of replacing them. In view of these developments, do you think relations between
[COUNTRY] and the countries of the Middle East and North Africa are likely to improve, get worse, or stay the same? [NOTE: this was only
asked in these seven countries.]
71
4: Swedes Skeptical on Participation in NATO Operations—
But Not if Mandated by the UN
70
60
Support
67
Oppose
Percent
50
40
47
50
30
30
20
10
0
Participation in NATO military operations
Participation in NATO military operations if
mandated by the UN
Q12a: Thinking about the future, do you support or oppose the participation of Sweden in military operations carried out by NATO?
Q12b: Thinking about the future, do you support or oppose the participation of Sweden in military operations carried out by NATO with
the support of the United Nations? [SPLIT: Swedish respondents were asked one or the other]
72
5: Desire for Russian Leadership
100
71
63
90
20
43
80
55
46
60
67
72
56
60
77
65
30
70
82
73
69
Percent
60
50
40
47
45
40
30
20
10
33
33
31
31
26
Undesirable
Desirable
25
24
23
19
16
12
12
0
Q1c: How desirable is it that Russia exert strong leadership in world affairs? Very desirable, somewhat desirable, somewhat undesirable,
or very undesirable?
73
5: Confidence in Russian Elections vs. Own Country's Elections
90
80
87
Russian elections
79
70
74
Own country's elections
73
69
Percent
60
64
63
60
59
50
56
54
45
40
45
44
40
30
34
30
43
36
30
29
20
10
15
10
11
14
17
16
16
19
16
11
0
Q16.1/16.3: How much confidence do you have that the results of elections reflect the will of the voters in the following countries?
Russia/[COUNTRY] Very confident, somewhat confident, not too confident, not at all confident?
74
5: Russian Views of Their Neighbors
70
60
Favorable
Unfavorable
64
60
Percent
50
52
40
39
30
27
27
20
10
0
Ukraine
Belarus
Georgia
Q5.14/15/16: Please tell me if you have a very favorable, somewhat favorable, somewhat unfavorable or very unfavorable opinion of
Ukraine/Belarus/Georgia...?
75
5: Russian Opinion of the Russian-NATO Partnership
40
35
36
30
30
Percent
25
20
21
15
10
5
0
Should take a more
independent approach
Should remain about the same
Should become closer
Q9: Do you think that the partnership in security and diplomatic affairs between the United States and the European Union [IN RUSSIA:
Russia and NATO] should become closer, should remain about the same, or should the [IN EUROPE: European Union / IN THE US:
United States / IN RUSSIA: Russia] take a more independent approach from the [IN EUROPE: United States / IN US: European Union / In
Russia: NATO]?
76
5: Russian Views of Russian Veto on Syria Intervention
60
50
54
Percent
40
30
26
20
21
10
0
Yes, I would support a veto
No, I would not support a veto Don't Know / Refuse to Answer
Q31b: As you may know, the Russian government may oppose intervention in Syria and can prevent any future United Nations action
with this veto. Do you oppose or support such a veto by the Russian government to stop the United Nations from intervening in Syria?
77