Only 11% of world’s population trust political leaders, survey shows

ALMOST two-thirds of the world’s population do not believe their country is governed by the will of the people, according to one of the biggest surveys of public opinion ever undertaken.

The Gallup International poll, commissioned by the BBC World Service, of more than 50,000 people in 68 countries, found politicians are the least trusted group of leaders.

Globally, only 11% trust politicians - less than military, religious and business leaders. About half (52%) were optimistic about their ability to change their life.

But the survey found huge disparities between the developed and developing world. In Latin America, 65% feel they can control their lives, followed by Canada and the US (62%) and Europe (53%). Least control is felt in Africa, Asia-Pacific and the former Soviet bloc.

Nationality is used by a third (32%) globally to define themselves, followed by religion (21%).

The poll also found that family (61%) exerts the greatest single influence on people worldwide. The lowest rating for family influence is in North America (35%) compared to 88% in Mexico.

In the former Soviet bloc, only around 20% think they are governed according to their wishes, compared to 36% in Europe. Scandinavia and South Africa stand out as the only countries where the majority believe they are ruled according to their wishes.

The poll also found that 48% of people globally do not believe elections in their country are free or fair. Around half (55%) think their elections are fair in the US and Canada, 24% in West Africa, 82% in EU countries, and 76% in South Africa.

Globally, religious leaders are the most trusted group (33%).