Monday, April 5, 2010

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 110

EAST EUROPE
Ruling United Russia Maintains Huge Lead
A majority of Russians would vote for the ruling party in the next legislative election, according to a poll by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 54 per cent of respondents would support United Russia (YR), down one point since January.
March 08, 2010
Little Appetite for Stalingrad in Russia
A proposal to return the City of Volgograd to its former name of Stalingrad is not popular in Russia, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. Only 17 per cent of respondents support this idea, while 59 per cent oppose it.
March 10, 2010
WEST EUROPE
Tories Maintain Lead Over Labour in Britain
The opposition Conservative Party keeps a comfortable lead in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 39 per cent of respondents would support the Tories in this year’s general election, down one point since mid-February.
March 13, 2010
Three-in-Five Germans Want New Foreign Minister
Many adults in Germany are dissatisfied with the performance of their current foreign minister, according to a poll by Forsa released by Stern and RTL. 60 per cent of respondents believe Free Democratic Party (FDP) leader Guido Westerwelle is not well-suited for the post.
March 08, 2010
France’s Sarkozy Stuck in Negative Territory
French president Nicolas Sarkozy has not been able to re-build his charismatic brand, according to a poll by LH2. 56 per cent of respondents have a negative opinion of the president, up one point since January.
March 11, 2010
NORTH AMERICA
Americans' Global Warming Concerns Continue to Drop
Gallup's annual update on Americans' attitudes toward the environment shows a public that over the last two years has become less worried about the threat of global warming, less convinced that its effects are already happening, and more likely to believe that scientists themselves are uncertain about its occurrence.
March 11, 2010
U.S. Satisfaction Drops Below 20%
A new Gallup poll finds a continuing decline in Americans' satisfaction with the way things are going in the United States. Now at 19%, satisfaction has reverted to the levels seen in the first few months of the Obama presidency. Satisfaction was 13% when Obama took office in January 2009 but exceeded 30% during most of the summer.
March 10, 2010
In U.S., 45% Favor, 48% Oppose Obama Healthcare Plan
As President Obama begins a final push on healthcare reform, slightly more Americans say they would advise their member of Congress to vote against rather than for a healthcare reform bill similar to the one the president has proposed.
March 9, 2010
The Emotional Cost of Underemployment
Underemployed Americans are significantly more likely to be "struggling" (54%) than employed Americans (38%), according to the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. Those who are underemployed are also less likely to be "thriving," than those who are employed -- 42% versus 61%.
March 9, 2010
Dems Hold Slight Advantage in 2010 Election Preferences
Democrats lead Republicans by a slight 47% to 44% margin when registered voters are asked which party's congressional candidate they would support in their district "if the elections for Congress were being held today."At the same time, Gallup's inaugural weekly tracking update on the 2010 elections shows Republicans with a distinct advantage over Democrats in terms of enthusiasm about voting this year.
March 9, 2010
Upper-Income Spending Drops to New Low in February
Snowstorms, a declining stock market, and the new normal combined in February to drive upper-income Americans' self-reported spending to its lowest level since Gallup began Daily tracking more than two years ago.
March 8, 2010
Fewer Americans Set on Buying Foreign Cars
In their car purchasing decisions, Americans are now less likely to show exclusive loyalty to foreign brands than they were in the recent past. Six percent in a March 4-7 Gallup survey says they would consider only foreign makes when buying a car, compared with 12% in February 2009 and 15% in December 2008. Meanwhile, the percentage who would consider only American cars has leveled off after showing gains from 2008 to 2009.
March 10, 2010
Virtually No Change in Annual Harris Poll Confidence Index from Last Year
For 44 years, since 1966, The Harris Poll has measured how confident the American people are in the leaders of major U.S. institutions. Based on the responses, Harris calculates an overall Confidence Index. Over the years it has gone up and down. In 2002, it touched 65. In 2008, it fell to 44. This year it stands at 53, one point lower than in early 2009.
Mar 09, 2010
Canadians Clearly Support MP Wage Freeze
Most adults in Canada are in favour of a proposal to freeze the wages for MPs, cabinet ministers and senators, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 92 per cent of respondents support this idea, outlined in the latest Speech from the Throne.
March 09, 2010
LATIN AMERICA
Chile's New President Inherits Economic Challenges
New Chilean President Sebastian Pinera inherited several economic challenges other than the devastating effects of earthquake. Chile is the wealthiest nation in Latin America, but the gap between its rich and poor is among the widest in the world-- and Gallup's 2009 survey reveals that nearly three in four Chileans (74%) believe it is getting wider, about on par with previous years.
Half of Mexicans Content with President Calderón
Public support for Felipe Calderón remains stable in Mexico, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 53.4 per cent of respondents agree with the way the president is governing, up one point since January.
March 07, 2010
Chile’s Bachelet Leaves with Enviable Rating
A large proportion of adults in Chile are satisfied with the performance of their outgoing president, according to a poll by Adimark Gfk. 84 per cent of respondents approve of Michelle Bachelet’s performance.
March 13, 2010
AUSTALASIA
Australians Say Country is Too Crowded
Most people in Australia think their country cannot allow more inhabitants at this time, according to a poll by Essential Research. 75 per cent of respondents say the country lacks the infrastructure and proper services to support a larger population, and 61 per cent say the country’s fragile environment cannot bear the burden of a growing population.
March 09, 2010
MULTI-COUNTRY SURVEYS
Largest European Countries, U.S. and China Agree With Full Body Scanners in Airports
A new Financial Times/Harris Poll of adults under 65 finds support for increased security measures after the attempted bombing of a plane on Christmas Day. Majorities of those surveyed in the United States (64%), Great Britain (62%), Italy (58%), France (58%), and Germany (53%) as well as 46% of Spaniards and 44% of Chinese all agree that body scanners that X-ray the fill body should be introduced at airports.
March 03, 2010
People in European Countries, U.S. and China Concerned Over Online Security
A new Financial Times/Harris Poll among those under age 65 finds there is a sense of concern over online security and while people are doing some things to help keep their data and privacy secure, they may not be doing everything.
March 04, 2010
Four in Five Regard Internet Access as a Fundamental Right: Global Poll
The poll of more than 27,000 adults conducted by GlobeScan found that 87 per cent of those who used the internet felt that internet access should be “the fundamental right of all people.” More than seven in ten (71%) non-internet users also felt that they should have the right to access the web.
March 07, 2010
Canadians, Americans Differ on Political Correctness
People in Canada and the United States do not see eye-to-eye when it comes to "political correctness", according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 50 per cent of respondents in Canada support the concept, but only 41 per cent of Americans concur.
March 11, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 109

EAST EUROPE
Putin, Medvedev Still Very Popular in Russia
Four-in-five Russians are satisfied with the way their prime minister is handling his duties, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. 80 per cent of respondents approve of Vladimir Putin’s performance.
March 06, 2010
WEST EUROPE
Britons Choose Diplomacy in Falklands Dispute
Many adults in Britain believe their government should engage in diplomatic negotiations with Argentina to seek a solution to the recent dispute over oil exploration in the Falkland Islands, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 65 per cent of respondents favour this course of action.
March 07, 2010
Britons Remain Gloomy About Economy
Few adults in Britain hold positive views on their domestic economy, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. Only 12 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in the United Kingdom as good or very good, down two points since January.
March 05, 2010
Poor Ratings Continue for French Leaders
Public support for French president Nicolas Sarkozy remains low, according to a poll by CSA published in Le Parisien. 40 per cent of respondents have confidence in Sarkozy to face the country’s problems, down one point since January.
March 05, 2010
French Dissatisfaction with Sarkozy Keeps Growing
Just under two thirds of people in France are disappointed with the leadership of Nicolas Sarkozy, according to a poll by Ifop published in Le Journal du Dimanche. 63 per cent of respondents are dissatisfied with the president’s performance, up two points since January.
March 03, 2010
Most Greeks Endorse Government Fiscal Measures
Most people in Greece trust that recent emergency measures implemented by the government will lead the country out of a fiscal crisis, according to a poll by MARC published by Ethnos. 51.3 per cent of respondents share this point of view, but 43 per cent disagree.
March 02, 2010
NORTH AMERICA
Obama Retains More Trust Than Congress on Healthcare
Americans remain more confident in the healthcare reform recommendations of President Obama (49%) than in the recommendations of the Democratic (37%) or Republican (32%) leaders in Congress. But these confidence levels are lower than those measured in June, suggesting that the ongoing healthcare reform debate has taken a toll on the credibility of the politicians involved.
March 5, 2010
Age Groups Differ on Obama More Than on Bush, Clinton
Barack Obama's job approval rating averages 66% among young adults during his presidency, 15 percentage points higher than for senior citizens and at least nine points higher than for any other age group. During their presidencies, George W. Bush's and Bill Clinton's approval ratings showed much less variation by age.
March 4, 2010
The New News Landscape: Rise of the Internet
The overwhelming majority of Americans (92%) use multiple platforms to get news on a typical day, including national TV, local TV, the internet, local newspapers, radio and national newspapers. Some 46% of Americans say they get news from four to six media platforms on a typical day. Just 7% get their news from a single media platform on a typical day.
March 1, 2010
Underemployment 19.8% in February, on Par With January
Gallup Daily tracking finds that 19.8% of the U.S. workforce was underemployed in February, on par with January's 19.9% reading.
March 3, 2010
Almost Half in U.S. Would Expand Nuclear Power
People in the United States appear to favour a proposal to build more nuclear power plants, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 48 per cent of respondents support this idea, while 34 per cent are opposed.
March 04, 2010
Three-in-Four Americans Disapprove of Congress
More Americans are expressing dissatisfaction with their legislative branch, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 73 per cent of respondents disapprove of the performance of Congress, up eight points since January.
March 03, 2010
Most Americans Troubled by Economic Downturn
A large proportion of people in the United States are frustrated by their country’s financial standing, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 83 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in the U.S. as poor or very poor.
March 02, 2010
President Obama Gains a Point in U.S.
Public support for Barack Obama is stable in the United States, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 48 per cent of respondents approve of their president’s performance, up one point since January.
March 01, 2010
Half of Canadians Think Economy is Good
For the first time this year, a majority of Canadians are satisfied with the country’s financial standing, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 52 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in Canada today as good or very good, up four points since January.
February 28, 2010
LATIN AMERICA
Resilient Chile Well-Poised to Recover After Quake
When Gallup surveyed Chileans in July-September 2009, majorities expressed confidence in the country's national government (58%) and military (54%) -- more confidence than the median for Latin America and the Caribbean and far more confidence than residents in Haiti.
March 5, 2010
Half of Mexicans Content with President Calderón
Public support for Felipe Calderón remains stable in Mexico, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 53.4 per cent of respondents agree with the way the president is governing, up one point since January.
March 07, 2010
Lula Keeps Extraordinary Rating in Brazil
Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva heads to the final months of his tenure with impressive numbers, according to a poll by Datafolha published in Folha de Sao Paulo. 73 per cent of respondents rate Lula’s performance as good or very good.
March 06, 2010
Lula’s Anointed Candidate Gains in Brazil
The chief of staff of Brazil’s government and presidential candidate for the ruling Worker’s Party (PT) has gained momentum but remains in second place, according to a poll by Ibope. 25 per cent of respondents would vote for Dilma Rousseff in this year’s election, up eight points since November.
March 04, 2010
Columbians Not Happy With The Political Parties
Poll results reveal that although Colombia’s political parties are viewed as very important to democracy, but they receive the worst rating among the country’s public institutions and authorities. Respondents identified a lack of engagement with citizens, lack of transparency, corruption and the lack of ideology as some of the major problems currently faced by political parties.
March 04, 2010
Haitians Express High Resolve, Community-Mindedness
Despite the oft-reported challenges facing Haiti's recovery process, Gallup polling in the country before the earthquake suggests its people have much to offer toward building a new future. More than 8 in 10 Haitians (81%) surveyed in December 2008 said they have a particular talent of some kind -- easily the highest proportion among 12 Central American and Caribbean populations of which the question was asked.March 1, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 108

EAST EUROPE
Top Two Czech Parties Gain as Election Nears
The Czech Republic’s main political parties have gained public backing, according to a poll by Median. 32 per cent of respondents would vote for the opposition Czech Social Democratic Party (CSSD) in the next legislative election, up 2.7 points since mid-December.
February 23, 2010
WEST EUROPE
Most Britons Still Oppose Afghan Mission
A majority of people in Britain is against the military operation involving British soldiers in Afghanistan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 52 per cent of respondents oppose the mission, down four points since November.
February 25, 2010
Swiss Want to Maintain Banking Secrecy Laws
Most people in Switzerland disagree with ending banking secrecy legislation, according to a poll by Isopublic published in Le Matin. 62 per cent of respondents oppose abolishing banking secrecy, while 35 per cent support this notion.
February 24, 2010
Most Italians Have No Confidence in Berlusconi
The majority of people in Italy say their prime minister does not inspire trust, according to a poll by IPR Marketing published in La Repubblica. 46 per cent of respondents have confidence in Silvio Berlusconi, while 52 per cent do not.
February 23, 2010
Germans Reject Offering Financial Aid to Greece
A large proportion of people in Germany are against using government funds to help Greece’s struggling economy, according to a poll by Emnid released by N24. 71 per cent of respondents oppose using German tax money to provide financial aid to Greece.
February 23, 2010
Greeks Agree with Need for Austerity Measures
Most people in Greece admit that recent austerity measures tabled by the government are both fair and necessary to get the country out of a deep economic crisis, according to a poll by Alco published in Proto Thema. 65 per cent of respondents share this point of view, while 24.9 per cent disagree.
February 22, 2010
NORTH AMERICA
Support for Israel in U.S. at 63%, Near Record High
For the first time since 1991, more than 6 in 10 Americans -- 63% -- say their sympathies in the Middle East situation lie more with the Israelis than with the Palestinians. Fifteen percent side more with the Palestinians, down slightly from recent years, while a combined 23% favor both sides, favor neither side, or have no opinion.
February 24, 2010
Americans See U.S. Military as No. 1 Now, But Not in 20 Yrs
While 64% of Americans believe the U.S. is the No. 1 military power in the world today, many fewer (36%) believe that the U.S. will be No. 1 militarily in 20 years. At the same time, most Americans believe the U.S. will continue to have combat troops regularly involved in fighting around the world over the next two decades.
February 26, 2010
Favorability Ratings of Labor Unions Fall Sharply
Favorable views of labor unions have plummeted since 2007, amid growing public skepticism about unions’ purpose and power. Currently, 41% say they have a favorable opinion of labor unions while about as many (42%) express an unfavorable opinion. In January 2007, a clear majority (58%) had a favorable view of unions while just 31% had an unfavorable impression.
February 23, 2010
Six in 10 Underemployed Not Hopeful About Finding Work
Gallup Daily tracking during January reveals that 61% of the underemployed are not hopeful they will find a job within the next four weeks, while 39% are hopeful.
February 23, 2010
Spending Less Becoming New Norm for Many Americans
The recession and financial crisis have resulted in a significant change in the way many Americans feel about spending and saving. Six in 10 Americans (62%) now say they more enjoy saving than spending -- while 35% say the reverse. This reflects a shift that began in December 2008 and a marked change from the first half of the decade, when Americans were about evenly split regarding whether they more enjoyed spending or saving.
February 25, 2010
Fewer Americans Support Health Care Reform Bill
Adults in the United States are less enthusiastic about the health care reform bill passed by the Senate in December, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. Only 28 per cent of respondents support the legislation, down eight points since January.
February 21, 2010
Half of Americans Reject Waterboarding
Most people in the United States are against the use of a procedure known as waterboarding on suspected terrorists, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 49 per cent of respondents disapprove of the U.S. military and intelligence agencies relying on this practice, while 39 per cent approve.
February 25, 2010
Americans Back Plan to Fine Airlines for Delays
Many adults in the United States are in favour of the federal government’s decision to fine airlines for long tarmac delays, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 58 per cent of respondents support the measure, while 24 per cent oppose it.
February 24, 2010
More Americans Support Afghanistan Mission
More adults in the United States are now in favour of the ongoing military operation in Afghanistan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 54 per cent of respondents support the mission involving American soldiers, up five points since December.
February 23, 2010
Canadians Divided on Afghanistan Mission
Adults in Canada hold differing views on the mission in Afghanistan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 47 per cent of respondents support the military operation involving Canadian soldiers, while 49 per cent oppose it.
February 24, 2010

LATIN AMERICA
Castañeda, Fujimori Lead Presidential Race in Peru
The mayor of Lima and the daughter of a jailed former president are currently the frontrunners in the race to become the next head of state of Peru, according to a poll by Ipsos, Apoyo, Opinión y Mercado published in El Comercio. 22 per cent of respondents would vote for Luis Castañeda Lossio of the National Solidarity Party (PSN) in next year’s ballot, down one point since January.
February 26, 2010
Three-in-Four Brazilians Satisfied with Lula
Public support for Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is still high in the last year of his tenure, according to a poll by Ibope. 76 per cent of respondents approve of the president’s performance, down seven points since November.
February 25, 2010
Mexicans Evenly Split on Abortion
The legal status of abortion divides opinions in Mexico, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 48.8 per cent of respondents agree with allowing women to seek an abortion on a voluntary basis, whereas 45.3 per cent disagree.
February 20, 2010
AUSTRALASIA
New Zealanders Reject GST Hike
Most people in New Zealand oppose a plan to increase the Goods and Services Tax (GST) while reducing income taxes at the same time, according to a poll by UMR Research. 56 per cent of respondents reject the idea, while 33 per cent support it.
February 26, 2010
Half in Australia Content with Rudd
Satisfaction with Australia’s Kevin Rudd remains stable, according to a poll by Newspoll published in The Australian. 50 per cent of respondents are content with the prime minister’s performance, unchanged since late January.
February 25, 2010
Australians Would Ban Shopping Mall Campaigning
Most people in Australia agree with a proposal to ban politicians from campaigning in shopping malls, according to a poll by Essential Research. 57 per cent of respondents support this initiative, while 28 per cent oppose it.
February 23, 2010
Australians Reject Abbott’s Comments on Virginity
The majority of Australians condemn recent comments by opposition leader Tony Abbott suggesting that women should try to preserve their virginity until marriage, according to a poll by Essential Research. 70 per cent of respondents think Abbott should not be giving advice on moral issues related to sex and marriage.
February 21, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 107

EAST EUROPE
Two-in-Five Russians Would Rely on Death Penalty

Many people in Russia think capital punishment should be fully re-instated and applied, according to a poll by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 44 per cent of respondents share this opinion.
February 19, 2010
Few Russians Regard Gorbachev in a Positive Light
Public perceptions on former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev have not changed dramatically in Russia over the past two years, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. Only 13 per cent of respondents hold a positive opinion of Gorbachev, while 34 per cent have negative views.
February 15, 2010

WEST EUROPE
French Socialists Ponder Options for 2012 Ballot
Current International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn and current Socialist Party (PS) leader Martine Aubry are the most popular candidates for the PS presidential nomination ahead of France’s 2012 election, according to a poll by Ifop published in Le Journal du Dimanche. 27 per cent of PS supporters would like Aubry to be the candidate.
February 15, 2010
Tories Keep Double-Digit Lead in Britain
The opposition Conservative Party remains ahead of its rivals in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 40 per cent of respondents would support the Tories in this year’s general election, up two points in a week.
February 20, 2010
Britons Believe Most MPs Abused Allowances
A large proportion of people in Britain think most Members of Parliament have abused the existing system of allowances, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 50 per cent of respondents say most MPs have misused the expenses system for their own benefit.
February 16, 2010
A Third of Italians Say Immigrants Cause Crime
Some people in Italy believe foreign-born residents are the main cause of crime in the country, according to a poll by Ispo published in Corriere della Sera. 35 per cent of respondents share this view.
February 18, 2010
Opposition Popular Party Favoured by Spaniards
People in Spain are voicing support for the party currently in the Official Opposition in the next legislative election, according to a poll by Sigma Dos published in El Mundo. 43 per cent of respondents would vote for the Popular Party (PP) in the next ballot, essentially unchanged since December.
February 17, 2010

NORTH AMERICA
Americans OK with Obama Meeting Dalai Lama
The majority of people in the United States have no problem with Barack Obama convening with the Dalai Lama, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 64 per cent of respondents agree with the planned meeting between the U.S. president and the Buddhist spiritual leader.
February 16, 2010
Americans’ Rating of United Nations Improved, but Still Low
Thirty-one percent of Americans say the United Nations is doing a good job of solving the problems it has had to face, according to the Feb. 1-3 Gallup World Affairs poll. While still a negative review, the current U.N. rating is a significant improvement over last year's 26% and the best since 2005.
February 19, 2010
In U.S., Canada Places First in Image Contest; Iran Last
Americans' perceptions of 20 nations that figure prominently in the news or U.S. foreign policy held quite steady in the first year of the Obama administration. Canada retained its top position in Gallup's annual country ratings, with 90% of Americans viewing it favorably, unchanged from 2009. Iran continues to rank last, with 10% this year.
February 19, 2010
In U.S., 6 in 10 View Iran as Critical Threat to U.S. Interests
A Gallup poll finds 61% of Americans viewing the military power of Iran as a critical threat to U.S. vital interests over the next 10 years. An additional 29% say Iran is an important, though not a critical, threat to the United States. The findings come as Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is seeking the support of several Arab nations for additional sanctions on Iran in a trip to the region this week.
February 16, 2010
Majorities Not Confident about US Policies in Afghanistan
According to The Harris Poll, a majority of adults continues to give President Obama negative ratings on his handling of Afghanistan. In addition, most are not confident that US policies will be successful. However, the President's standing has improved since November and the majority who support his decision to send an additional 30,000 troops to Afghanistan has also increased by 7 points.
February 11, 2010
Most People Believe Osama bin Laden Is Alive and Many Believe He Is in Pakistan
A new Harris Poll finds that more than three-quarters (78%) of adult Americans believe Osama bin Laden is alive. A plurality (37%) believes that he is living in Pakistan, but many people (32%) do not feel able to even guess where he is.
February 10, 2010
Americans See Slight Improvement in U.S. Global Image
After five years when fewer than half of Americans believed the United States was seen favorably in the eyes of the world, Gallup's decade-long trend lines on this measure have again crossed. Fifty-one percent now say the U.S. is viewed favorably, up from 45% a year ago.
February 15, 2010
Americans More Divided on Strength of National Defense
Americans are more likely now (45%) than they were a year ago (37%) to say the United States' national defense is "not strong enough." At the same time, fewer believe the nation's defense is "about right."
February 18, 2010
One in Three Cite “American People” as Key U.S. Asset
Americans were asked in a recent USA Today/Gallup survey to name the one or two strengths of the United States that make them feel most optimistic about the future of the country and, conversely, the main weaknesses that make them the most pessimistic. The American people themselves, named by 35%, and the nation's military (14%) dominate the list of perceived strengths.
February 17, 2010
Does Google Make Us Stupid?
Respondents to the fourth "Future of the Internet" survey, conducted by the Pew Internet & American Life Project and Elon University's Imagining the Internet Center, were asked to consider the future of the internet-connected world between now and 2020, majorities believe that by 2020 internet search engines would enhance human intelligence instead of decreasing their IQs.
February 19, 2010
Some Americans Expect Higher Unemployment in 2011
People in the United States are divided in their assessment of the country’s employment crisis, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 36 per cent of respondents expect the unemployment rate to be higher a year from now, 25 per cent think it will remain the same, and 26 per cent believe it will be lower.
February 18, 2010
Some Canadians Willing to Pay, Travel for Health Care
Two-in-five Canadians would consider paying or going abroad to seek medical treatment, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 40 per cent of respondents would be willing to pay out of their own pocket to have quicker access to medical services that currently have long wait times, and 42 per cent would consider traveling to another country.
February 19, 2010
Most Canadians Generally Agree with Euthanasia
Most people in Canada support the legalization of euthanasia, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 67 per cent of respondents share this point of view, down four points since August.
February 16, 2010
LATIN AMERICA
Mexicans Evenly Split on Abortion
The legal status of abortion divides opinions in Mexico, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 48.8 per cent of respondents agree with allowing women to seek an abortion on a voluntary basis, whereas 45.3 per cent disagree.
February 20, 2010
AUSTRALASIA
Australians Would Not Change Flag or Anthem
People in Australia reject the notion of modifying two of their national symbols, according to a poll by Essential Research. 54 per cent of respondents oppose changing the Australian flag, and 52 per cent reject changing the national anthem.
February 19, 2010
Australian Political Scene Becomes Tighter
Australia’s main federal parties are virtually tied, according to a poll by Newspoll published in The Australian. 40 per cent of respondents would vote for the governing Australian Labor Party (ALP) in the next election to the House of Representatives, while 39 per cent would support the Coalition of Liberals and National.
February 17, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 102

Dated January 10-16, 2010

EAST EUROPE

Ukraine's National Election -- a Problem of Democracy?
Pew Research Center surveys show that Ukrainians are not only disenchanted with their current leadership and economic situation; they are also broadly dissatisfied with the democratic and capitalist systems that evolved after the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s. In fact, of the former Eastern bloc publics surveyed, Ukrainians are the most unhappy with the transition to democracy and free markets.
January 14, 2010

WEST EUROPE

French Disappointed with National Identity Debate
Half of people in France are dissatisfied with a government initiative to launch a "great debate on the national identity," according to a poll by CSA published in Le Parisien. 50 per cent of respondents share this point of view, while 25 per cent say they are content with it.
January 14, 2010

Britons Want Shorter Time Limit for Abortions
Almost half of the population of Britain wants the time limit on abortion to be reduced from the current 24 weeks, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 47 per cent of respondents share this point of view, while 36 per cent would maintain the current limit.
January 14, 2010

Conservatives Retain Large Lead in Britain
The Conservative party maintains a considerable advantage over its rivals in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 40 per cent of respondents would support the Tories in the next general election.
January 12, 2010

Portuguese Split on Same-Sex Marriage
People in Portugal are divided in their opinion of same-sex marriage, according to a poll by Eurosondagem published in Express. 49.5 per cent of respondents oppose marriages between people of the same sex, while 45.5 per cent favour them.
January 11, 2010

NORTH AMERICA

Obama Image Unscathed By Terrorism Controversy
In the aftermath of the failed Christmas Day terrorist attack on a Detroit-bound airliner, the government's ratings for reducing the threat of terrorism have slipped. In addition, 33% now say that the ability of terrorists to launch a major attack on the U.S. is greater than it was at the time of 9/11; that is up only slightly from November but is the highest percentage expressing this view in surveys dating to 2002.
January 14, 2010

U.S. Fear of Terrorism Steady After Foiled Christmas Attack
Gallup polls bracketing the 2009 Christmas Day terror incident -- in which a Nigerian man attempted to explode a bomb hidden under his clothes on a Northwest Airlines flight -- document little change in U.S. public concern about being victimized by terrorism.
January 13, 2010

Congress and Wall Street Are Blamed the Most for Americans' Current Financial Situation
A new Harris interactive survey shows that almost three-quarters of Americans (72%) say they blame Congress for their financial situation while 71% blame Wall Street.
January 06, 2010

Blacks Upbeat about Black Progress, Prospects
According to a comprehensive new nationwide Pew Research Center survey on race, despite the bad economy, blacks' assessments about the state of black progress in America have improved more dramatically during the past two years than at any time in the past quarter century.
January 12, 2010

Americans Back Profiling Air Travelers to Combat Terrorism
Americans widely endorse the use of profiling to single out airline passengers for more intensive security searches before they board U.S. flights, based on their age, ethnicity, or gender. Seventy-one percent are in favor of this practice and 27% are opposed.
January 15, 2010

In U.S., Air Travelers Take Body Scans in Stride
In the midst of renewed discussion of heightened security measures to thwart terrorist attacks like the Christmas Day attempt to blow up an airplane over Detroit, 78% of U.S. air travelers approve of U.S. airports' using full body scan imaging on airline passengers.
January 11, 2010

Americans Lose Ground in Most Areas of Well-Being in 2009
Americans' overall well-being in 2009 precisely matched their overall well-being in 2008, with a Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index composite score of 65.9 for each year. However, how Americans got to that score was considerably different in 2009 than it was in 2008: 2009 scores fell behind for five of the six well-being sub-indexes, but the Life Evaluation Index score improved so much that it offset the declines in the other five areas.
January 14, 2010

Rating for Harper Drops to 28% in Canada
Fewer Canadians are satisfied with the way their prime minister is handling his duties, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 28 per cent of respondents approve of the Stephen Harper’s performance, down four points since December.
January 16, 2010

Dissatisfaction with Prorogation Grows in Canada
More adults in Canada disagree with their federal government’s decision to prorogue Parliament, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 61 per cent of respondents share this view, up eight points in a week.
January 15, 2010

Conservatives Face Slight Dip in Canada
Canada’s governing Conservative Party begins this year with a drop in popularity, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 34 per cent of respondents would vote for the Tories in the next election to the House of Commons, down two points since December.
January 14, 2010

LATIN AMERICA

Survey Highlights Haitians’ Vulnerability
The effects of a 7.0-magnitude earthquake would be difficult for any country to cope with -- but they are likely to be particularly crippling and long-lasting for Haiti, whose residents were already less likely than any other population in the Western Hemisphere to have access to essential goods and services.
January 14, 2010

More Brazilians Readily Support Lula
The popularity of Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva shows no signs of receding, according to a poll by Datafolha published in Folha de Sao Paulo. 72 per cent of respondents say Lula has done a good or very good job as head of state, up five points since August.
January 13, 2010

MULTI-COUNTRY POLLS

People in Three Countries Think Iran Wants Nukes
People in three countries believe the Iranian government is attempting to develop nuclear weapons, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 71 per cent of Americans, 66 per cent of Canadians and 63 per cent of Britons agree with this notion.
January 12, 2010

Widespread Anti-Immigrant Sentiment in Italy
According to Pew Research Center survey, Italians have a very negative view of immigrants. They believe that immigrants are having bad impact on the social and economic life of Italy.
January 12, 2010

Arab League Countries' Views of U.S. Leadership Up in 2009
Approval ratings of U.S. leadership increased in 10 of 12 Arab League countries that Gallup surveyed twice in 2009. Between the first survey period from February to March and the second survey period from July to October, U.S. leadership enjoyed the highest approval jump in Bahrain (33 percentage points), Mauritania (22 points), Kuwait (19 points), and Comoros (15 points).
January 13, 2010

Poverty Most Serious World Problem, Says Global Poll
Extreme poverty is a more serious problem for the world than climate change, terrorism, or the state of the global economy, according to a new annual global poll across 23 countries conducted by Globescan for BBC World Service.
January 17, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Monday, February 1, 2010

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 101

January 03-09, 2010

EAST EUROPE

Yeltsin Right to Appoint Putin, Say Russians
Two-thirds of adults in Russia re satisfied with the last decision taken by former president Boris Yeltsin, according to a poll by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 66 per cent of respondents think Yeltsin was right in stepping down and appointing Vladimir Putin as his successor.
January 05, 2010

Few Russians Want a New Stalin in Charge
Few people in Russia would welcome a leader with the characteristics of former Soviet strongman Josef Stalin, according to a poll by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 58 per cent of respondents disagree with the notion that modern Russia needs someone like Stalin, up six points since 2005.
January 04, 2010

WEST EUROPE

Turkish Cypriots Would Shun Unity in Referendum
Most people in Turkish Cyprus would not endorse a plan to unify the island with Greek Cyprus, according to a poll by Redborder Research Company. 51.2 per cent of respondents would vote down a proposal resembling the so-called Annan plan, which a majority supported in a 2005 referendum.
January 08, 2010

NORTH AMERICA

Americans Divided Over Health Care Reform
People in the United States are split over the health care reform bill passed by the Senate last month, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 36 per cent of respondents support the legislation, while 39 per cent oppose it.
January 09, 2010

Democratic Support Dips Below Majority Level in 2009
The year 2009 marked the end of a three-year run of majority Democratic support among U.S. adults. Last year, an average of 49.0% of Americans identified as Democrats or said they leaned Democratic, the party's first yearly average below 50% since 2005. Still, Democrats maintained an average eight-point advantage in support over Republicans last year, as 40.7% of Americans identified as Republicans or leaned Republican.
January 6, 2010

Obama Starts 2010 With 50% Approval
President Barack Obama begins his second year as president with 50% of Americans approving and 44% disapproving of his overall job performance. This is well below the 68% approval rating Obama received in his first few days as president, and matches his average for all of December -- which included many days when public support for him fell slightly below that important symbolic threshold.
January 6, 2010

More Americans Went Uninsured in 2009 Than in 2008
While President Obama works with House and Senate leaders to hammer out a final healthcare bill before the State of the Union address, the legislation's goal of expanding coverage to the uninsured will need to cover a larger pool of Americans who are without health insurance. According to the Gallup Healthways Well-Being Index, an average of 16.2% of American adults lacked health insurance coverage in 2009, up from 14.8% in 2008.
January 8, 2010

Stock Owners More Positive About Market in Coming Year
Stock owners in the U.S. have become somewhat more optimistic about the stock market over the last 20 months. In December, 55% said it was a good idea to invest in the market -- a turnaround from April 2008, when 55% said it was a bad idea. A majority of stock owners also at this point believe that stocks will be higher a year from now.
January 4, 2010

Canadians Disagree With Prorogation of Parliament
Many people in Canada believe their federal government was wrong to prorogue Parliament, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion published in the Toronto Star. 53 per cent of respondents share this view.
January 08, 2010

LATIN AMERICA

Most Argentines Reject Same-Sex Marriage
Many people in Argentina are against same-sex marriage, according to a poll by Poliarquía Consultores. 60 per cent of respondents disagree with allowing homosexual couples to get married.
January 05, 2010

AUSTRALASIA

A Third of Australians Unhappy with Rudd in 2009
About one third of people in Australia say the government led by Kevin Rudd underperformed in 2009, according to a poll by Essential Research. 31 per cent of respondents say the prime minister’s administration did somewhat worse or much worse than expected last year.
January 07, 2010

MULTI-COUNTARY POLLS

Three Countries OK with New Airport Scanners
People in three countries would prefer to go through an airport scanner than to be patted-down by an officer before boarding a flight, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 78 per cent of respondents in the United States, 73 per cent of Britons and 67 per cent of Canadians feel this way.
January 08, 2010

Few People Expect Legally Binding Climate Deal
People in three countries hold low expectations on the future of the Copenhagen Accord on climate change, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. Only 19 per cent of respondents in the United States, 16 per cent in Britain and 12 per cent in Canada expect the document to become a legally binding treaty.
January 06, 2010

Mixed Expectations For the New Decade by Adults in the Five Largest European Countries and the U.S
Thinking ahead ten years, pluralities of adults 64 and under in the U.S. (43%) and Spain (41%) as well as 37% of Germans are optimistic about the new decade while 44% of French adults and 36% of Britons are pessimistic. Two in five Italians (41%) are neither optimistic nor pessimistic.
December 30, 2009

The Western Balkans –a suitable case for “Shock Integration”
Support for EU accession has remained high in all countries of the region except Croatia. More than half of the people interviewed in the other countries thought that EU membership would be a good thing. In Macedonia and Serbia, however, this share has declined over the past three years. Croats continued to see the EU critically – nearly 4 in 10 thought of EU membership as being neither good nor bad – and a relative majority (43%) would vote against accession in a referendum.
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 100

EAST EUROPE

Who Will Modernize Russia, State or Entrepreneurs?
A majority of six in ten in Russia do not know what could be the possible driving force of introduction of innovations in Russia. A majority of Russians thinks that the successful transition from the commodity-driven to innovation-driven economy mainly depends on state and state officials but a minority believe only entrepreneurs can do this.
December 8, 2009

United Russia Remains Powerful Political Force
Voters in the Russian Federation overwhelmingly prefer their governing party, according to a poll by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 53 per cent of respondents would support United Russia (YR) in the next legislative ballot.
January 01, 2010

Putin Leads 2012 Russian Presidential Hopefuls
Vladimir Putin is the early leader as voters in Russia ponder their choices for the 2012 presidential election, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. 27 per cent of respondents would vote for the former president if an election took place this Sunday.
December 28, 2009

WEST EUROPE

After Economic Crisis, Europeans are Beginning to Feel Positive
Standard Eurobarometer survey of Autumn 2009 show that European are beginning to feel released of the economic crisis that had grave impact on their lives. Though public is still passing through the difficult times but there are significant signs of improvement in the public opinion of Europeans.
December 2009

More Dutch Think Afghan Mission will Endure
People in the Netherlands believe their country’s commitment to Afghanistan will continue after 2010, according to a poll by Maurice de Hond. 39 per cent of respondents think the mission in Uruzgan will be extended, up 12 points since October.
January 02, 2010

Most Britons Foresee a Conservative Government
A large proportion of people in Britain believe the Conservative party returning will return to government in the next 10 years, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 81 per cent of respondents believe this is likely to happen.
January 01, 2010

Only Two-in-Five French Endorse Sarkozy
French president Nicolas Sarkozy and his appointed prime minister, François Fillon, close the year with low ratings, according to a poll by LH2. 56 per cent of respondents have a negative opinion of Sarkozy’s performance, and 51 per cent feel the same way about Fillon’s.
December 31, 2009

Two-in-Five French Find Islam Incompatible
A considerable proportion of people in France think the Islamic religion is not compatible with life in this European country, according to a poll by CSA published in Le Parisien. 40 per cent of respondents agree with this notion, but 54 per cent disagree.
December 29, 2009

Many Italians Would Follow Swiss on Minarets
Many people in Italy would vote in favour of banning the construction of minarets in the country if a referendum on the matter took place, according to a poll by Ispo published in L’Osservatorio. 46 per cent of respondents would vote in favour of the minaret ban, while 37 per cent would vote against it.
December 30, 2009

NORTH AMERICA

One-Quarter of Americans Believe Election of George W. Bush had Biggest Impact on America This Decade
When it comes to selecting one event among 6 different options that has had the biggest impact on America over the past ten years, one-quarter of Americans (25%) say it is the election of George W. Bush. Moreover they feel that U.S. has military and economic power become worse, and its influence over other countries has decreased over the last decade.
December 24, 2009

Terror Defines the Decade
According to a new Zogby Interactive poll, Americans have evaluated the last decade (to-date) and the results can be found in one word: Terror. When asked to pick one word/phrase to define the past decade, 21% of Americans chose "terror" followed by "decline" (15%) and then "loss of personal freedom/civil liberties" (13%).
December 30, 2009

2009 was a bad year, 2010 will be better
For all their differences, Americans largely agree on two things: 2009 was a lousy year for the nation, and 2010 is likely to be better. Nearly three-fourths of Americans think 2009 was a bad year for the country, which was rocked by job losses, home foreclosures and economic sickness.
December 30, 2009

Americans Less Happy, More Stressed in 2009
The percentage of Americans experiencing a lot of happiness or enjoyment without a lot of stress or worry declined slightly from an average of 48.2% in 2008 to 47.4% in 2009, according to data from the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. Conversely, the percentage of Americans experiencing a lot of stress or worry but not a lot of happiness or enjoyment increased by about the same amount.
January 1, 2010

Prior to Bomb Scare, Worry About Terrorism at 39% in U.S.
In a Dec. 11-13 USA Today/Gallup poll, conducted just two weeks before the thwarted Christmas Day bomb attempt aboard Northwest Airlines' Detroit-bound flight 253, 39% of Americans reported being very or somewhat worried that they or someone in their family will become a victim of terrorism.
December 29, 2009

Obama Closes 2009 at 50% in United States
Half of Americans are content with the way their president is handling his duties, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 50 per cent of respondents approve of Barack Obama’s performance, down one point since November.
January 02, 2010

Americans Divided on Second Term for Obama
People in the United States are split on whether their president will earn a second term in office, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 46 per cent of respondents believe it is likely that Barack Obama will be re-elected, while 44 per cent think this is unlikely.
December 30, 2009

Tourism Industry Still Dealing With Cautious Consumers
While half of Americans foresee no change in their travel spending in 2010 compared to 2009, a larger proportion plan to spend less in the coming year than say they will spend more. That deficit is particularly high relative to air travel and hotel stays. However, even the percentage of Americans saying they will spend less on vacations in general exceeds those saying they will spend more by a slight margin, 27% vs. 22%.
December 29, 2009

Savings Trumps Environment for Making Homes Greener
When it comes to making their homes more energy efficient, Americans appear to be motivated much more by finances than by environmental concerns. The vast majority of Americans who have taken steps this year to make their homes more energy efficient, 71%, say they did so mostly to save money rather than to improve the environment.
December 8, 2009

Clinton Edges Out Palin as Most Admired Woman
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton continues her reign as the Most Admired Woman in the eyes of Americans, but barely edges out former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin this year, 16% to 15%. Talk show host Oprah Winfrey and first lady Michelle Obama finish third and fourth.
January 01, 2010

Few Canadians Predict an Independent Quebec
Few people in Canada believe the province of Quebec will become an independent country in the next decade, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 83 per cent of respondents deem this possibility as unlikely.
December 31, 2009

GLOBAL POLLS

People Predict Military Action in Iran in 2010s
Citizens in three countries foresee a U.S.-backed military intervention in Iran in the next decade, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 58 per cent of respondents in Britain, 56 per cent of Canadians and 54 per cent of Americans regard this as a likely possibility.
December 29, 2009

Nearly One in Five EU Residents Struggle to Cope Financially
In July 2009, at a time when several European economies were just coming out of recession, nearly one in five (18%) European Union residents said their household had at some time in the past year run out of money to pay ordinary bills or to buy food or other daily consumer items.
December 29, 2009
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.