Pew Survey: 36-Nation Poll Reveals Global Perception of India, Sri Lanka Most Favourable, Pakistan Least

A new Pew Research Center survey has offered fresh insights into how India is perceived across the world, revealing that the country enjoys a net positive image in most of the 36 nations surveyed. While Sri Lanka recorded the highest favourable opinion of India, Pakistan remained the least favourable, reflecting the longstanding geopolitical tensions between the two neighbours.

The survey, conducted between February and May 2026 among more than 42,000 respondents, also found that public opinion in the United States is almost evenly divided, highlighting differing perceptions of India's growing global role.

India Enjoys More Positive Than Negative Global Perception

According to the survey, a median of 45% of respondents across the 36 countries held a favourable opinion of India, while 41% viewed the country unfavourably.

The findings suggest that India continues to maintain a generally positive international image, particularly across several Asian, African and European nations.

Sri Lanka Tops the List

Sri Lanka emerged as the country with the highest favourable perception of India, with 79% of respondents expressing a positive opinion.

The survey also found that 63% of Sri Lankans consider India their country's most important ally, while only 11% viewed India negatively.

The improvement comes after India extended significant financial assistance, credit lines and humanitarian support to Sri Lanka during and after its 2022 economic crisis, helping strengthen bilateral ties.

Strong Support in Europe, Africa and Asia

Apart from Sri Lanka, India received favourable ratings in several countries, including:

• Kenya – 71%
• United Kingdom – 71%
• Germany – 63%
• Israel – 60%
• Italy – 56%
• Sweden – 55%
• Japan – 55%
• Thailand – 55%
• Singapore – 51%
• Indonesia – 50%
• Philippines – 49%

The findings indicate that India's diplomatic engagement and expanding economic partnerships continue to shape favourable international perceptions.

Mixed Response in India's Neighbourhood

Public opinion was more divided in neighbouring countries.

In Bangladesh, 42% of respondents viewed India favourably, while 51% expressed an unfavourable opinion amid recent diplomatic tensions.

Meanwhile, Pakistan recorded the lowest approval, with 91% of respondents expressing an unfavourable opinion of India. Only 7% held a favourable view.

The findings come after relations between the two countries deteriorated following the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor, and the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.

The survey also found relatively low favourable ratings for India in Turkey (15%), the West Bank and East Jerusalem (18%), and Australia, where 55% of respondents held an unfavourable opinion.

Americans Divided on India

The survey found that public opinion in the United States remains closely split.

Around 45% of Americans said they viewed India favourably, while 50% expressed an unfavourable opinion.

The report noted that positive perceptions of India in the US have declined compared to previous years, falling from 51% in 2023 to 45% in 2026.

Political affiliation also influenced views:

• 50% of Democrats viewed India favourably.
• 42% of Republicans expressed a favourable opinion.

How Americans View India's Global Influence

Beyond public perception, the survey also examined opinions about India's international standing.

• 30% of Americans believe India's global influence is growing.
• 54% feel its influence has remained largely unchanged.
• 13% believe India's influence has weakened.

The findings come at a time when India-US relations continue to navigate trade negotiations, tariff disputes and evolving geopolitical priorities.

What the Survey Suggests

The Pew survey highlights that India continues to enjoy broad international goodwill despite regional challenges.

While countries such as Sri Lanka, Kenya and the UK view India positively, perceptions remain deeply influenced by regional politics in South Asia. In the United States, public opinion appears balanced, reflecting both India's growing strategic importance and ongoing policy debates.

Overall, the survey underscores India's expanding global presence while also illustrating how diplomatic relations, security issues and economic partnerships continue to shape international opinion.