Zone 3- Euro-Americas, Summary of Global Polls, Week # 98

Dated 13th – 19th Dec. 09'

WEST EUROPE
Little Change for British Political Leaders
Public support for Gordon Brown remains stable in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 28 per cent of respondents approve of Brown’s performance as prime minister, down one point since November.
December 15, 2009

Germans Anxious About Growth of Islam
Most people in Germany express a certain degree of anxiety over the growth of the Islamic religion and culture in the country, according to a poll by Infratest-Dimap released by ARD. 33 per cent of respondents are very concerned about this matter, and 29 per cent express moderate concern.
December 19, 2009
Scotland Ponders Change in Status-Quo
One-in-four Scottish adults believe Scotland should attain full independence from the United Kingdom, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 25 per cent of respondents agree with this rationale.
December 16, 2009

NORTH AMERICA
U.S. Flu and Cold Cases Decline in November
On average, fewer American adults reported having the flu "yesterday" in November (2.4%) than did so in October (2.7%), according to data from the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. The decline puts the number of flu cases reported in November of this year below the number reported in November of last year, even amid concerns about the potential widespread impact of H1N1.
December 18, 2009
Little Support for Terrorism among Muslim Americans
The Fort Hood shootings and the arrest of five Muslim American students in Pakistan have raised questions about the threat of homegrown terrorism in the United States. However, the Pew Research Center's comprehensive portrait of the Muslim American population suggests it is less likely to be a fertile breeding ground for terrorism than Muslim minority communities in other countries.
December 17, 2009
At Year's End, Nation Remains Divided
Public opinion about President Barack Obama and his major polices continues to be divided as the year comes to a close. His overall approval rating is 49%, which is largely unchanged from November (51%). Opinions about Afghanistan also are mixed: 50% express confidence in Obama to do the right thing regarding the situation in Afghanistan, which is unchanged from October.
December 16, 2009
Americans Oppose Closing Gitmo, Moving Prisoners to U.S.
Americans remain opposed to closing the Guantanamo Bay prison in Cuba and moving some of the terrorist suspects being held there to U.S. prisons: 30% favor such actions, while 64% do not. These attitudes could present a significant roadblock for President Obama at a time when he seeks congressional approval to move terrorist suspects from Guantanamo to a converted state prison in northwestern Illinois.
December 16, 2009
Majority of Americans Still Not Backing Healthcare Bill
As the U.S. Senate continues working to craft a filibuster-proof healthcare reform bill, a new USA Today/Gallup poll finds public support for such efforts still below the majority level. Forty-six percent of Americans say they would advise their member of Congress to vote for healthcare legislation (or lean toward doing so), while 48% would advise a no vote (or lean in that direction).
December 16, 2009
Americans Favor U.S. Signature on Copenhagen Treaty
Just over half of Americans, 55%, favor the United States' signing a binding treaty in Copenhagen that would commit the U.S. to significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while 38% oppose it. Democratic endorsement of a treaty (79% are in favor) is somewhat higher than Republican resistance (65% are opposed), while independents' views are identical to the national average.
December 15, 2009
Approval of U.S. Congress Essentially Flat, at 25%
With the U.S. Congress battling until the brink of Christmas to try to pass a healthcare reform bill, Americans are growing neither more positive nor more negative about their elected representatives in Washington. More than two-thirds of Americans (69%) continue to disapprove of the job Congress is doing, while 25% approve -- essentially unchanged from last month.
December 17, 2009
Americans Split on Same-Sex Marriage
People in the United States are almost evenly divided on whether same-sex marriage should be allowed in their country, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 43 per cent of respondents favor allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally, while 46 per cent are opposed.
December 18, 2009
Fewer in U.S. Believe in Man-Made Climate Change
The proportion of Americans who believe global warming is a fact and is mostly caused by emissions from vehicles and industrial facilities has dropped considerably this year, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 44 per cent of respondents side with this argument, down seven points since July.
December 16, 2009
Harper Down, Rivals Improve in Canada
Public support for Stephen Harper fell slightly in Canada this month, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 32 per cent of respondents approve of the prime minister’s performance, down two points since November.
December 19, 2009
Climate Change a Threat for Most Canadians
Two-in-five adults in Canada believe global warming will significantly impact their life and the life of future generations, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 40 per cent of respondents feel this way about the effect of climate change.
December 17, 2009

GLOBAL POLLS
Global Restrictions on Religion
"Global Restrictions on Religion," a new study by the Pew Research Center's Forum on Religion & Public Life, finds that 64 nations -- about one-third of the countries in the world -- have high or very high restrictions on religion. But because some of the most restrictive countries are very populous, nearly 70% of the world's 6.8 billion people live in countries with heavy restrictions on religion, the brunt of which often falls on religious minorities.
December 16, 2009
Developed and Emerging Nations Should Cut Emissions
Gallup surveys in 2009 find respondents in six key global economies are more likely to say developed economies such as the U.S., Germany, and Japan and fast-emerging economies such as China, India, and Brazil should reduce emissions at the same time than say one group should reduce emissions first.
December 17, 2009
Climate change professionals expect Europe to demonstrate leadership at UN summit
A global survey has found that professionals involved in making decisions that have implications for climate change are calling for Europe to take a leadership stance in negotiations in Copenhagen, where leaders from around the world are meeting for a major UN climate conference (COP15).
December 16 2009

---------------
The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 97

Dated 6th – 12th Dec. 09'

EAST EUROPE
Global Economic Crisis Is Personal for Russians
Gallup's survey, conducted in April through June, shows Russians' confidence in their nation's economy faltered as it entered recession this year accompanied by unemployment and inflation. Reflecting on their own communities and themselves, Russians' optimism about the local job market, their personal standard of living, and the local economy -- three of four items that make up the index -- withered to less than half of last year's levels.
December 11, 2009

WEST EUROPE
Britons Remain Opposed to Afghanistan Mission
Public support for the military operation in Afghanistan remains low in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 56 per cent of respondents oppose the mission, and 56 per cent reject a plan to deploy an additional 500 soldiers in the next few weeks.
December 09, 2009

Germans Mount Pressure on Afghan Withdrawal
The proportion of people in Germany wanting a full withdrawal of troops serving in Afghanistan has significantly increased, according to a poll by Infratest-Dimap released by ARD. 69 per cent of respondents support bringing all the troops back from Afghanistan, up 12 points since September.
December 06, 2009

EU Company Forecasts Vary Widely
In July 2009, across the European Union, nearly half of managers surveyed predicted growth for their companies in the next 2 to 3 years and about 3 in 10 thought their annual revenue would remain the same. More than one in six EU company managers said they expected their annual income to decrease in that time frame.
December 9, 2009

NORTH AMERICA
After Brief Uptick, Obama Approval Slips to 47%
Barack Obama's presidential job approval rating is 47% in the latest Gallup Poll Daily tracking update, a new low for his administration to date. His approval rating has been below 50% for much of the time since mid-November, but briefly rose to 52% last week after he announced his new Afghanistan policy.
December 7, 2009

Most People Know the Dollar Is Weak and Believe This Is Bad for the Economy, Consumers, the Reputation and Influence of the U.S. and for Exports
A new Harris Poll finds that most adults are aware that the dollar has become weaker against most other major currencies over the last few years, and they think that is a bad thing. Substantial majorities believe that a weak dollar is bad for consumers, and for the reputation and influence of the United States.
December 06, 2009

Big Drop in Those Who Believe That Global Warming Is Coming
A new Harris Poll finds that those who believe that the release of carbon dioxide and other gases will lead to global warming has dropped from 71% two years ago to only 51% now. While many people are not sure, those who do not believe that carbon dioxide emissions will cause global warming have increased from 23% to 29% since 2007.
December 07, 2009

More Americans Have Little or No Concern About Climate Change
A new Zogby Interactive survey shows nearly half of Americans -- 49% -- say they are only slightly or not at all concerned about climate change, while 35% are somewhat or highly concerned.
December 12, 2009

Religious Intensity Remains Powerful Predictor of Politics
Americans' religious intensity continues to be a major predictor of party identification. A new analysis of more than 29,000 interviews Gallup conducted in November finds that Republicans outnumber Democrats by 12 percentage points among Americans who are classified as highly religious, while Democrats outnumber Republicans by 30 points among those who are not religious.
December 11, 2009

Honesty and Ethics Poll Finds Congress’ Image Tarnished
For the first time in Gallup's annual Honesty and Ethics of Professions poll, a majority of Americans -- 55% -- say the honesty and ethical standards of "members of Congress" are low or very low -- slightly worse than "senators," whose ethics are rated low by 49%. By contrast, 83% of Americans say nurses have either very high or high ethical standards, positioning them at the top of Gallup's 2009 ranking of various professions.
December 9, 2009

U.S. Clergy, Bankers See New Lows in Honesty/Ethics Ratings
The percentage of Americans rating the honesty and ethics rating of clergy as very high or high is down to 50% in 2009, the lowest percentage it has been in the 32 years Gallup has measured it.
December 9, 2009

Most Americans Support Legalizing Marijuana
Many adults in the United States are willing to legalize marijuana, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 53 per cent of respondents support this notion, while 43 per cent are opposed.
December 10, 2009

Americans Ponder New National Tea Party
A third of adults in the United States appear satisfied with the proposal to establish a third political party, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 32 per cent of respondents think the National Tea Party would be a good thing for the country.
December 09, 2009

LATIN AMERICA
Dominicans Review Prospective Candidates
The majority of people in the Dominican Republic want Miguel Vargas Maldonado to represent the opposition Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD) in the next presidential election, according to a poll by Gallup published in Hoy. 62 per cent of respondents say the PRD president should run for office in the 2012 ballot.
December 11, 2009

Mexicans Reject Re-election of Legislators
Most adults in Mexico believe the members of the Chamber of Deputies should not be eligible for re-election, according to a poll by Reforma. 68 per cent of respondents reject this possibility, while only 19 per cent would endorse it.
December 08, 2009

Nicaraguans Dread Potential Ortega Re-Election
Most people in Nicaragua think the re-election of Daniel Ortega would be a negative development in the country, according to a poll by CID-Gallup published in La Prensa. 58 per cent of respondents share this opinion, while 36 per cent say a new Ortega term would be positive.
December 07, 2009

MULTI-COUNTRY POLLS
Poll Finds Most Publics Around the World Want Their Governments to Be More Cooperative
A WorldPublicOpinion.org poll of people in 21 nations around the world finds that publics in 14 of them think their governments should be more ready to cooperate with others to achieve mutual gains.
December 9, 2009

Climate Concerns Continue to Increase: Global Poll
Public concern about climate change is at its highest level since GlobeScan began international tracking in 1998, according to a new GlobeScan/BBC World Service poll conducted in 23 countries. Nearly two thirds of those polled now say climate change is a “very serious” problem. However, concern has fallen in China and the USA.
December 08, 2009
---------------
The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 96

Dated 29th Nov. - 5th Dec. 09'

EAST EUROPE
Fewer Russians Would Restore Death Penalty
Fewer adults in Russia believe capital punishment should be completely restored in the country, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. 37 per cent of respondents would like to see this happen, down 17 points since 2000.
December 05, 2009

Russians Are Smitten With President Medvedev
A large majority of people in Russia express satisfaction with Dmitry Medvedev’s leadership, according to a poll by Yury Levada Analytical Centre. 74 per cent of respondents approve of the president’s performance, up two points since October.
December 02, 2009

WEST EUROPE
Britons Doubtful About Copenhagen Success
People in Britain do not expect this month’s Climate Change Summit in Denmark to result in a comprehensive agreement to deal with global warming, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. While 58 per cent of respondents would prefer to see a legally binding agreement that sets specific targets for all signatories, only nine per cent foresee this actually happening.
December 03, 2009

Relations with EU Will Not Change, Say Britons
Most people in Britain believe the appointment of Belgian prime minister Herman Van Rompuy as president of the European Union (EU) and Catherine Ashton as high representative for foreign policy will make no difference in how Britain relates to the continental group, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 54 per cent of respondents share this view.
December 01, 2009

NORTH AMERICA
U.S. Seen as Less Important, China as More Powerful
The general public and members of the Council on Foreign Relations are apprehensive and uncertain about America's place in the world. Growing numbers in both groups see the United States playing a less important role globally, while acknowledging the increasing stature of China. And the general public, which is in a decidedly inward-looking frame of mind when it comes to global affairs, is less supportive of increasing the number of U.S. troops in Afghanistan than are CFR members.
December 3, 2009

In U.S., Trust Varies With Income, Education, Race, and Age
Is community trust a luxury in America? Gallup data offer some support for that idea -- 82% of those making $90,000 per year or more say they would expect a neighbor who found a lost wallet or purse containing $200 to return it. In contrast, 50% of those making less than $24,000 per year expressed this kind of trust in their neighbors.
December 04, 2009

In U.S., More Support for Increasing Troops in Afghanistan
Americans over the last two weeks have become slightly more likely to favor sending more U.S. troops to Afghanistan, and slightly less likely to favor a reduction in forces. At this point, 47% of Americans would advise President Obama to increase the number of U.S. troops -- either by the roughly 40,000 recommended by the commanding general in Afghanistan or by a smaller amount -- while 39% would advise Obama to reduce the number of troops. Another 9% would opt to leave troop levels as they are, while 5% have no opinion.
December 2, 2009

Americans Split on Whether Goals in Afghanistan Will Be Met
The unveiling of President Obama's new military strategy for Afghanistan has not left Americans overly confident that it will succeed -- 48% say the U.S. is certain or likely to achieve its goals in the war, while 45% say the U.S. is unlikely to do so or is certain not to achieve its aims.
December 4, 2009

Obama’s Plan for Afghanistan Finds Bipartisan Support
President Obama has managed to thread the needle with his newly announced Afghanistan strategy, with his approach winning the approval of a majority of both Democrats (58%) and Republicans (55%) in a USA Today/Gallup poll conducted Wednesday night. At the same time, less than a majority of independents approve (45%). Among Americans overall, 51% approve of the strategy while 40% disapprove.
December 3, 2009

Americans See Protectionism, Tax Cuts as Ways to Create Jobs
As President Obama holds a jobs summit Thursday to discuss ways to address the problem of growing unemployment in the United States, Americans' top prescriptions for creating more jobs are to keep manufacturing jobs in the U.S. (18%), lower taxes (14%), provide more help to small businesses (12%), and create more infrastructure work (10%).
December 2, 2009

Majority of Americans Think Near-Term Terrorism Unlikely
By 57% to 39%, more Americans think a terrorist attack on the United States is unlikely to happen in the next few weeks than say an attack is likely. This is based on Gallup polling conducted Nov. 20-22, prior to President Obama's address to the nation on Afghanistan in which he said the need to fight terrorism is the primary reason he is committing more U.S. troops to the conflict there.
December 2, 2009

Few Americans Expect Real Deal at Copenhagen
Few Americans believe the upcoming Climate Change Summit in Denmark will lead to a legally binding agreement to tackle global warming, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. While 44 per cent of respondents would like to see a deal that sets specific targets for all signatories, only 11 per cent think this will happen.
December 04, 2009

Support for Afghan Mission Dwindles in U.S.
Fewer adults in the United States are backing the mission in Afghanistan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 49 per cent of respondents support the military operation involving American soldiers in Afghanistan, down five points since October.
December 03, 2009

Republicans Say Palin Would Be Good President
Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin is a popular option for the 2012 presidential election in the United States amongst Republican Party supporters, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 47 per cent of GOP voters think Palin would be a good president.
December 02, 2009

Approval for Congress Improves in the U.S.
Public satisfaction with the work of the House of Representatives and the Senate increased this month, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 27 per cent of respondents approve of the performance of the U.S. Congress, up five points since October.
November 30, 2009

Canadians Decline Expanded Role in Afghanistan
People in Canada believe their country should not commit more soldiers to the war in Afghanistan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 66 per cent of respondents agree with this rationale.
December 04, 2009

Canadians Review Bilateral Ties with China
Canadians believe their country’s long-term policy with China should focus on human rights and minority rights, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 63 per cent of respondents feel this way, while 37 per cent would place more emphasis on the trading relationship.
December 03, 2009

Canadians Want Free Trade Deal with India
Most people in Canada would endorse a potential free trade agreement with India, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 55 per cent of respondents would agree with establishing bi-lateral trade relations with the South Asian country.
December 01, 2009

Canadians Reject Infidelity, Polygamy and Cloning
A large proportion of Canadians believe certain specific social behaviours are morally acceptable, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion published in Maclean’s. At least 79 per cent of respondents feel this way about contraception, sexual relations between an unmarried man and woman, divorce, and having a baby outside of marriage.
November 30, 2009

Canadians Want Inquiry on Afghan Allegations
Most people in Canada believe a public inquiry on what the government and the Canadian Forces knew about reports of prisoner torture in Afghanistan is necessary at this time, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion published in the Toronto Star. 53 per cent of respondents support this notion, while 36 per cent oppose it.
November 29, 2009

LATIN AMERICA
Mexicans Want to Keep Drug War Going
Few adults in Mexico would consent to the legalization of drugs, according to a poll by GEA-ISA. 75 per cent of respondents think it is necessary to keep fighting drug traffickers for an unlimited amount of time.
December 05, 2009

Half of Mexicans Content with Calderón
Public support for Mexican president Felipe Calderón fell last month, according to a poll by Berumen y Asociados published in El Universal. 50.4 per cent of respondents approve of Calderón’s performance, down 3.3 points since June.
December 04, 2009

Brazil’s Serra Loses Appeal as Election Looms
The presidential bid of Sao Paulo governor Jose Serra is losing traction as the election year draws near, according to a poll by Instituto Sensus. 31.8 per cent of respondents would vote for Serra of the conservative Brazilian Party of Social Democracy (PSDB) in the 2010 election, down 7.7 points since September.
December 03, 2009

Peruvians Want to Scrap Mandatory Voting
The vast majority of people in Peru would support holding a referendum on whether voting should become voluntary as opposed to mandatory, according to a poll by Ipsos, Apoyo, Opinión y Mercado published in El Comercio. 74 per cent of respondents agree with holding the referendum, while 24 per cent disagree.
December 02, 2009

Mexicans Would Back PRI Candidate in 2012
Mexico’s presidency could return to the hands of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) in the next election, according to a poll by GEA-ISA. 49 per cent of respondents would vote for the PRI candidate in the next presidential ballot, up four points since August.
December 02, 2009

More Cubans Urge for Change in Politics, Economy
The number of Cubans calling for an overhaul of the country’s political system has increased, according to a poll by the International Republican Institute. If given the chance, 75.2 per cent of respondents would vote to change the current system into a democracy, up 12 points since November 2008.
December 01, 2009

More Cubans Urge for Change in Politics, Economy
The number of Cubans calling for an overhaul of the country’s political system has increased, according to a poll by the International Republican Institute. If given the chance, 75.2 per cent of respondents would vote to change the current system into a democracy, up 12 points since November 2008.
December 01, 2009

Early Presidential Leaders Emerge in Peru
Presidential hopefuls in Peru remain moderately unpopular but there are two discernible frontrunners, according to a poll by Ipsos, Apoyo, Opinión y Mercado published in El Comercio. 23 per cent of respondents would vote for Lima mayor Luis Castañeda Lossio in the 2011 ballot, up one point since October.
November 29, 2009

Revolution was About Freedom, Say Mexicans
Most people in Mexico believe freedom was the main achievement of the Mexican Revolution, according to a poll by El Universal. 40 per cent of respondents feel this way about the armed struggle that began in 1910.
November 29, 2009

MULTI-COUNTRY POLLS
Majority of People across the World Want Action on Climate Change, Even if it Entails Costs
A new poll of 15 nations, most of them in the developing world, finds that majorities of the people canvassed want their governments to take steps to fight climate change, even if that entails costs.
December 3, 2009

Climate Concerns Continue to Increase: Global Poll
Public concern about climate change is at its highest level since GlobeScan began international tracking in 1998, according to a new GlobeScan/BBC World Service poll conducted in 23 countries. Nearly two thirds of those polled now say climate change is a “very serious” problem. However, concern has fallen in China and the USA.
December 07, 2009

Global Warming Seen as a Major Problem around the World
A 25 countries PEW survey reveals that majorities in 23 of 25 countries agree that protecting the environment should be given priority, even at the cost of slower economic growth and job losses. And many are willing to make sacrifices, such as having to pay higher prices, to address global warming.
December 2, 2009

U.S. Leadership, Obama Winning Favor in Latin America
Less than one year into President Barack Obama's administration, many foreign policy objectives are still works in progress. Gallup finds, however, that in Latin America, Obama is enjoying improved perceptions of U.S. leadership. Gallup surveyed across the region between July and September 2009 and found regional median approval of U.S. leadership at 51%, up significantly from the previous three years.
December 1, 2009
---------------
The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 95

Dated 22nd- 28th Nov. 09'

EAST EUROPE
Governing Party Stumbles Still Unrivalled in Russia
Slightly fewer people in Russia are now willing to vote for the governing party but other groups have only marginal support, according to a poll by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 53 per cent of respondents would vote for United Russia (YR) in the next election to the State Duma, down three points since October.
November 23, 2009

WEST EUROPE
Sarkozy Leads Rivals in Next French Ballot
Incumbent Nicolas Sarkozy leads a list of potential presidential hopefuls in France, according to a poll by Ifop published in Valeurs Actuelles. 28 per cent of respondents would to re-elect Sarkozy in 2012.
November 23, 2009

Tories Maintain Commanding Lead in Britain
The opposition Conservative party remains ahead of its competitors in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 39 per cent of respondents would vote for the Tories in the next general election.
November 26, 2009

Britons Would Keep Queen’s Speech Tradition
Many adults in Britain believe the Queen’s speech should remain a part of the country’s political life, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 44 per cent of respondents believe the tradition should continue as it is.
November 27, 2009

Britons Want to Decrease Legal Immigration
People in Britain believe too many immigrants are entering the country, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 68 per cent of respondents think the number of legal immigrants who are allowed to relocate in the United Kingdom should decrease.
November 24, 2009

Economic Crisis Takes a Toll on Spain’s Zapatero
Spanish president of the government José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has grown highly unpopular, according to a poll by Público. 59.4 per cent of respondents disapprove of Zapatero’s performance, up 7.1 points since October.
November 25, 2009

Ban on Minarets Rejected by Swiss Majority
The controversial proposal that seeks to ban the construction of minarets in Switzerland is set to fail in tomorrow’s referendum, according to a poll by the GfS Research Institute released by the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation. 53 per cent of respondents would vote against the proposed ban.
November 28, 2009

Italy’s Berlusconi Remains Under 50% Mark
Most people in Italy are expressing little faith in Silvio Berlusconi, according to a poll by IPR Marketing published in La Repubblica. 51 per cent of respondents have no confidence in the prime minister, unchanged since October.
November 24, 2009

Many EU Residents Reduced Their 2009 Vacation Budget
About 4 in 10 EU residents (39%) interviewed in September reported cutting back on their vacation budget in 2009. Forty-four percent of residents said they did not reduce their budget, while 14% responded that they never go on vacation.
November 26, 2009

NORTH AMERICA
In U.S., More Support for Increasing Troops in Afghanistan
Americans over the last two weeks have become slightly more likely to favor sending more U.S. troops to Afghanistan, and slightly less likely to favor a reduction in forces. At this point, 47% of Americans would advise President Obama to increase the number of U.S. troops -- either by the roughly 40,000 recommended by the commanding general in Afghanistan or by a smaller amount -- while 39% would advise Obama to reduce the number of troops. Another 9% would opt to leave troop levels as they are, while 5% have no opinion.
November 25, 2009

Americans at Odds With Recent Terror Trial Decisions
By 59% to 36%, more Americans believe accused Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed should be tried in a military court, rather than in a civilian criminal court. Most Republicans and independents favor holding the trial in a military court, while the slight majority of Democrats disagree.
November 27, 2009

Steady Approval Numbers for Obama in U.S.
A majority of Americans are satisfied with the way Barack Obama is handling his job, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 51 per cent of respondents approve of their president’s performance.
November 27, 2009

Americans Want Death Penalty for 9/11 Planners
A large majority of people in the United States think that, if five men accused of participating in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, are found guilty by a federal court, they should be sentenced to death, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 69 per cent of respondents share this opinion.
November 25, 2009

Americans Want Executive Salary Caps
A large majority of people in the United States would like to see the salaries of top executives capped, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 47 per cent of respondents strongly support this idea, and 31 per cent back it moderately.
November 22, 2009

Canadians Reject Status Quo on Prostitution
People in Canada believe the country’s laws on prostitution should be modified, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion published in Maclean’s. 50 per cent of respondents would prefer to decriminalize some of the actions surrounding prostitution that are currently illegal and allowing adults to engage in consensual prostitution.
November 28, 2009

Canadians Have Low Expectations on Copenhagen
Few Canadians believe that the upcoming Climate Change Summit in Denmark will lead to a comprehensive global accord, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. While 58 per cent of respondents would like to see a legally binding agreement that sets specific targets for all signatories, only five per cent believe this will actually happen.
November 27, 2009

Canadians More Satisfied with Government on H1N1
People in Canada are now less critical of the government’s handling of the H1N1 pandemic, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 45 per cent of respondents are content with the federal government’s preparedness for the Swine Flu outbreak, up 13 points since early November.
November 26, 2009

Where the Public Stands on Immigration Reform
While the immigration issues have not been among the top election issues, Pew Research polling has found significant public support for both tougher enforcement and the so-called "path to citizenship," but several factors suggest that the debate could be a difficult one.
November 23, 2009

LATIN AMERICA
Peruvians Continue to Distrust García’s Leadership
Two thirds of people in Peru express discontent with the leadership of Alan García, according to a poll by Ipsos, Apoyo, Opinión y Mercado published in El Comercio. 66 per cent of respondents disapprove of the president’s performance, down one point since October.
November 25, 2009

Bolivians Call for Debate Before Election
Most people in Bolivia want candidates running for the presidency to engage in a public meeting before an election takes place next month, according to a poll by Equipos Mori. 73.8 per cent of respondents support holding a debate featuring the presidential candidates.
November 25, 2009

Colombians and Venezuelans at Odds on Leadership
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez recently announced the country should "prepare for war" against Colombia, a sign of how relations between the two nations continue to deteriorate. A Gallup survey finds that 14% of Colombians approved of Venezuela's leadership in August 2009, which is similar to the 16% measured last year, but down from 29% in July 2007.
November 24, 2009

AUSTRALASIA
Australians Convinced of Man-Made Climate Change
The majority of Australians think climate change is a reality and a consequence of human activity, according to a poll by Essential Research. 53 per cent of respondents share this opinion, while 34 per cent say the phenomenon is a normal fluctuation in the earth’s climate.
November 22, 2009
---------------
The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Summary of Global Polls- Week # 94

Dated 15th-21st Nov. 09'

EAST EUROPE
Romanian Election Poised to Go to Run-Off
Tomorrow’s presidential election in Romania will likely need a second round, according to a poll by CCSB. 35 per cent of respondents would vote for incumbent Traian Basescu in the first round, up one point since early November.
November 21, 2009

WEST EUROPE
Berlusconi Scandals Don’t Affect His Coalition
The coalition of right-leaning parties supporting Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi remains highly popular, according to a poll by Digis. 50.1 per cent of respondents would vote for the governing centre-right coalition—including the Italian People of Freedom Party (PdL), the Northern League (LN), and Movement for Autonomy (MPA)—in the next legislative election.
November 21, 2009
Britons Favour Building More Nuclear Plants
Most people in Britain would support building more nuclear power plants in the country, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 55 per cent of respondents share this opinion, while 32 per cent oppose it.
November 20, 2009
German Politics Don’t Budge After Election
People in Germany are maintaining the same allegiances they had before a recent federal election, according to a poll by Infratest-Dimap. 35 per cent of respondents would vote for the ruling Christian-Democratic Union (CDU) or its associate Bavarian Christian-Social Party (CSU) in the next election to the Federal Diet, up one point since mid-October.
November 19, 2009
More French Doubt Sarkozy’s Leadership
The number of people expressing a lack of confidence in the president’s leadership skills has risen in France, according to a poll by CSA published in Le Parisien. 55 per cent of respondents do not trust Nicolas Sarkozy, up three points since October.
November 18, 2009

NORTH AMERICA
Obama Job Approval Down to 49%
The latest Gallup Daily tracking results show 49% of Americans approving of the job Barack Obama is doing as president, putting him below the majority approval level for the first time in his presidency.
November 20, 2009
Lack of Money/Wages Top Family Financial Problem in U.S.
When asked in an open-ended question to name the most important financial problem facing their families today, one in six Americans (17%) say low wages and a lack of money. Healthcare costs are next, at 14%. While the mentions of healthcare might be attributed to its prominence in the news, the issue of low wages may reflect another aspect of the job crisis in America today.
November 19, 2009
U.S. Divided on Health Care Bill Passed in House
People in the United States are evenly divided in their opinion about a health care reform bill recently approved by the House of Representatives, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 41 per cent of respondents support the bill, whereas 39 per cent oppose it.
November 21, 2009
Modest Rise In Concern About Islamic Extremism
The public continues to express concern about the rise of Islamic extremism in the United States and abroad, but a survey taken shortly after the deadly Nov. 5 shootings at the Fort Hood Army base shows only a modest increase in these concerns since 2007.
November 18, 2009
Canadians Call Long Gun Registry Inefficient
The majority of people in Canada think that the Canadian Firearms Registry has failed, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion released by the Toronto Star. 46 per cent of respondents say this program has been unsuccessful in preventing crime, and an additional 32 per cent say it has been ineffectual.
November 20, 2009
Two-in-Five Canadians Want Elected Head of State
More people in Canada believe their country should no longer have a monarch, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 43 per cent of respondents would prefer to have an elected head of state, up eight points since late October.
November 17, 2009

LATIN AMERICA
PAN Trails PRI in Mexico’s 2012 Presidential Race
The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) holds the upper hand as voters in Mexico ponder their options in the 2012 presidential election, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 36.8 per cent of respondents would vote for the PRI candidate in the ballot.
November 19, 2009
Most Argentineans Support Same-Sex Marriage
An overwhelming majority of people in Argentina would favour allowing people of the same sex to marry, according to a poll by Analogías released by Crítica. 66.3 per cent of respondents in six cities support legalizing same-sex marriage.
November 18, 2009

AUSTRALASIA
New Zealand Conservatives in Dominant Position
New Zealand’s conservative National party remains highly popular, according to a poll by Roy Morgan International. 55.5 per cent of respondents would vote for National in the next election to the House of Representatives, up 2.2 points since mid-October.
November 18, 2009

GLOBAL POLLS
Europeans and Americans Share Concerns About Iran’s Nuclear Program[1]
As international Pressure mounts on Iran to halt its nuclear program, Americans and Europeans generally express serious concerns about the potential threat from a nuclear-armed Iran. However, these fears are somewhat muted in Russia -- a nation that will be crucial to any effort to impose new sanctions on Iran.
November 18, 2009
Majorities Reject Banning Defamation of Religion: 20 Nation Poll
As the UN General Assembly prepares to debate a proposal calling for nations to take action against the defamation of religion, majorities in 13 of 20 nations polled around the world support the right to criticize a religion.
November 20, 2009[2]

[1] http://pewresearch.org/pubs/1416/iran-nuclear-weapons-international-concern-survey-findings
[2] http://www.worldpublicopinion.org/pipa/articles/btjusticehuman_rightsra/647.php?nid=&id=&pnt=647&lb=

---------------
The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Summary of Global Polls- Week # 93

Dated 8th-14th Nov. 09'

EAST EUROPE

One-in-Four Russians See Putin Personality Cult
Some people in Russia think prime minister and former president Vladimir Putin is the subject of a personality cult, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. 23 per cent of respondents share this opinion.
November 10, 2009

WEST EUROPE

French Clearly Satisfied with Obama’s Performance
People in France are content with the way the current president of the United States is doing his job, according to a poll by Ifop published in Paris Match. 84 per cent of respondents say their assessment of Barack Obama’s performance is positive.
November 16, 2009
President Sarkozy Drops to 39% in France
Public support for Nicolas Sarkozy continues to erode in France, according to a poll by Ifop published in Paris Match. 39 per cent of respondents approve of the president’s performance, down six points since September.
November 14, 2009
Italians Decry Classroom Crucifix Ban
The vast majority of people in Italy reject the idea of removing crucifixes from classrooms across the country, according to a poll by Ispo published in Corriere della Sera. 84 per cent of respondents say crucifixes should remain inside classrooms.
November 12, 2009
Britons Want Referendum on Lisbon Treaty
Many people in Britain believe the country should hold a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty if the Conservatives form the next government, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 46 per cent of respondents agree with this notion.
November 12, 2009
Tories Maintain Advantage in British Politics
Conservative party remains well-positioned ahead of an expected general election in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid . 38 per cent of respondents would vote for the Tories, down two points since mid-October. November 08, 2009

NORTH AMERICA

Americans OK with Muslims in U.S. Military
Adults in the United States believe Muslims should continue to be allowed to serve in their country’s military, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 53 per cent of respondents agree with this notion, while 33 per cent disagree.
November 15, 2009
Americans Assess Obama’s First Year in Office
Half of adults in the United States believe their current president is meeting their expectations, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 48 per cent of respondents think Barack Obama has performed about the same as they expected.
November 13, 2009
Americans Praise Reagan for Fall of Communism
People in the United States believe former president Ronald Reagan was the main political figure in the fall of communism, according to a three-country poll by Angus Reid Strategies. 36 per cent of respondents think Reagan deserves a lot of the credit for the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe.
November 10, 2009
Americans Split on Afghanistan Troop Increase vs. Decrease
As President Barack Obama prepares to make a decision on U.S. military policy in Afghanistan, 35% of Americans say he should follow the recommendation of the commanding U.S. general in Afghanistan and increase troop levels by about 40,000. Another 7% support a smaller troop increase, meaning a total of 42% of Americans support a troop increase of some size. However, nearly the same percentage, 44%, would like to see the number of U.S. troops in Afghanistan reduced.
November 12, 2009
More in U.S. Say Health Coverage Is Not Gov’t. Responsibility
More Americans now say it is not the federal government's responsibility to make sure all Americans have healthcare coverage (50%) than say it is (47%). This is a first since Gallup began tracking this question, and a significant shift from as recently as three years ago, when two-thirds said ensuring healthcare coverage was the government's responsibility.
November 13, 2009
New Low in U.S. Job Optimism
U.S. job-market optimism has reached a new low, with only 8% of Americans saying now is a good time to find a quality job -- the lowest level since Gallup began tracking this measure in August 2001.
November 11, 2009
Canadians Dismayed at Swine Flu Preparedness
People in Canada are unhappy with the way their federal and provincial administrations are dealing with the outbreak of H1N1 influenza, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. Only 36 per cent of respondents are satisfied with the level of preparedness of their provincial government, down 20 points since late October.
November 11, 2009

LATIN AMERICA

‘Chavismo’ Losing Steam in Venezuela
President Hugo Chavez's popularity among Venezuelans has waned in recent years. Less than half of Venezuelans (47%) in August 2009 said they approved of Chavez' job performance -- down from 61% in late 2006 when he was elected to a second six-year term.
November 12, 2009
Mexicans Oppose Civilian Militias to Combat Crime
The majority of people in Mexico reject a proposal by a politician to create social "cleansing groups" to deal with organized crime, according to a poll by Demotecnia published in Milenio. 53 per cent of respondents oppose this idea, while 40 per cent support it.
November 13, 2009

AUSTRALASIA

Australians Say Government Weak on Asylum Issues
Most people in Australia dislike the way the federal government has handled the recent arrival of a boat full of Sri Lankan asylum seekers, according to a poll by Essential Research. 52 per cent of respondents say the administration of Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has been too weak in its approach to the issue.
November 15, 2009

GLOBAL POLLS

Wide Dissatisfaction with Capitalism -- Twenty Years after Fall of Berlin Wall
Twenty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, a new BBC World Service global poll finds that dissatisfaction with free market capitalism is widespread, with an average of only 11% across 27 countries saying that it works well and that greater regulation is not a good idea.
November 09, 2009
As Hu Jin Tao, Obama Prepare to Meet, World Public Gives China, US Low Marks on Climate Change
With President Barack Obama on his way to meet his Chinese counterpart in Beijing for talks on global climate change and a range of other issues, a poll by WorldPublicOpinion.org shows that publics in more than half of 20 nations disapprove of the way China and the United States are dealing with global warming.
November 11, 2009
Americans and Western Europeans Agree on Afghanistan-Pakistan Extremist Threat
A transatlantic consensus exists with regard to the threat posed by extremists in Afghanistan and Pakistan, even though Americans and Western Europeans generally disagree about what policy to pursue in Afghanistan.
November 11, 2009
Obama Popular in Japan, China and South Korea
As Barack Obama embarks on his first trip to Asia -- which will include stops in Japan, China and South Korea -- he will be greeted by publics who are confident in his judgment regarding world affairs and who generally agree with his international policies.
November 12, 2009

---------------
The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.