Survey: Chinese Public Divided About Seeking Global Dominance

Results from a recent survey show that Chinese citizens overwhelmingly support their country’s active participation in world affairs and do not view the United States as a friend to China. Polling was conducted by The Carter Center and the Chicago Council on Global Affairs from April through June this year.

While 90% of survey respondents endorsed China’s participation on the world stage, they were less clear cut on the country’s role. Some 48% of respondents said that China should share in world leadership, while 40% thought the country should take a dominant role.

Most respondents did not have a favorable view of the United States: Only 17% thought the U.S. was a friend to China. This finding is consistent with other recent polls. In dealing with Washington, China should take a balanced approach, says the Chinese public — a mix of cooperation and containment.

In addition, despite pessimistic predictions outside China, 84% of Chinese citizens believe their economy is doing well overall.

With the rise of Chinese economic advancement, the country’s public appears to understand China’s international clout.

Reports on the survey results can be found below.