Global public demands cooperation on climate and rights, survey finds
A survey of over 36,000 people in 34 countries reveals widespread support for international collaboration on human rights, climate change, and artificial intelligence. Gordon Brown argues that this public sentiment offers a path to counter the slide toward a power-based world order. He urges like-minded nations to unite and act on these shared priorities.
The survey, conducted by Focaldata for Gordon Brown's forthcoming book and commissioned by the Rockafeller Foundation, polled more than 36,000 individuals across 34 nations. Results showed 55% backed international cooperation even when it required compromising their own country's national interest, while only 20% opposed such collaboration. Majorities on every continent rejected populist nationalist approaches to geopolitics.
Beyond cooperation, over 70% of respondents wanted their governments to uphold human rights, address climate change, regulate artificial intelligence, strengthen cybersecurity, and fund humanitarian assistance. Follow-up research indicated 80% worldwide favored establishing a global system promoting peace, stability, and human dignity through action against poverty, disease, hunger, and illiteracy. The findings also suggested that community-active individuals showed the strongest support for international collaboration.
This survey could signal shifting public sentiment that may influence how governments approach international climate negotiations and multilateral institutions. If policymakers heed these findings, nations could find renewed mandate for cooperative climate action despite rising geopolitical tensions. However, the gap between public preference and governmental behavior may persist, potentially fueling disillusionment. The results could also embolden international organizations and civil society groups advocating for coordinated responses to climate change, human rights protections, and technology governance.