A Pew Research Center study spanning 23 countries revealed sharp contrasts in democratic satisfaction. India leads with 74% approval, reflecting optimism in its governance and economy. In contrast, high-income nations like Japan (24% satisfaction) and Greece (81% dissatisfaction) report widespread discontent. A global median of 58% expressed dissatisfaction, a rise since 2017, driven by frustrations with political elites and governance. While elections improved satisfaction in some nations, others saw declines. Despite challenges, democracy remains a valued system, urging better representation and trust-building efforts globally.

A recent study by the Pew Research Center has highlighted a striking contrast in how nations perceive their democratic systems. While India stands out with overwhelming public approval, many developed nations report a significant level of dissatisfaction. Conducted during the spring of 2025, the survey spanned 23 countries and revealed varying degrees of satisfaction with democracy, influenced by economic conditions, recent elections, and perceptions of governance.

India: A Beacon of Democratic Optimism

India emerged as a global leader in democratic satisfaction, with an impressive 74% of respondents expressing approval of how their democracy functions. This places India among the top nations globally in terms of public contentment with democracy, reflecting a strong alignment between its citizens and their governance system. Coupled with a positive sentiment about its economic performance, India sets itself apart as a rare example of optimism in a world increasingly marked by disillusionment.

Japan and Greece: Struggling with Discontent

At the other end of the spectrum, Japan reported the lowest satisfaction levels, with only 24% of its population approving of their democratic system. Similarly, Greece recorded alarmingly high levels of dissatisfaction, with 81% of respondents expressing unhappiness. Japan, South Korea (71% dissatisfaction), and Greece illustrate a broader trend of discontent, particularly in high-income nations where both economic and democratic dissatisfaction are intertwined.

A Global Perspective on Democratic Dissatisfaction

The survey revealed that across the 23 countries, a median of 58% of adults were dissatisfied with their democracies. This represents a notable increase from the 49% dissatisfaction recorded in 2017 and underscores a growing trend of frustration since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The report suggests that this dissatisfaction stems not from a rejection of democratic principles but from a sense that political elites are failing to represent the voices of ordinary citizens.

The Role of Elections and Economic Perceptions

The study also explored how recent electoral processes influenced satisfaction levels. Countries like Canada, Germany, South Africa, the UK, and the US saw a rise in democratic satisfaction following recent elections. In contrast, nations like Poland and South Korea experienced a decline in satisfaction between 2024 and 2025, even before their elections took place. For instance, in South Korea, dissatisfaction surged to 74%, while in Poland, it reached 54%.

Democracy’s Enduring Appeal Despite Challenges

Despite widespread dissatisfaction, the Pew Research Center emphasized that representative democracy remains a widely valued system of governance. The findings suggest that while people are frustrated with the execution of democracy, they continue to believe in its foundational principles. The challenge lies in addressing the disconnect between political leaders and the public, ensuring that democratic systems evolve to meet the expectations of their citizens.

A Call for Reflection

The survey’s findings highlight the complex dynamics of public satisfaction with democracy. While India’s optimism offers a hopeful narrative, the broader global trend of dissatisfaction serves as a wake-up call for political systems worldwide. Addressing economic concerns, improving representation, and rebuilding trust in political institutions are critical steps needed to restore faith in democracy.

As the world grapples with these challenges, the report underscores the importance of aligning governance with the needs and aspirations of the people it serves.