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The 25 Countries Facing the Most Disapproval Worldwide in 2025
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China
Despite its economic prowess and global influence, China remains a highly polarizing country. Its handling of human rights issues, territorial disputes, and military assertiveness in regions like the South China Sea contribute to widespread disapproval. International criticism also stems from concerns over cybersecurity and trade practices. -
United States
As a dominant superpower, the U.S. faces significant criticism for foreign policies, military interventions, and domestic issues like inequality and political polarization. Its global influence often sparks both admiration and resentment, making it one of the most disliked countries in numerous parts of the world. -
Russia
Russia continues to attract criticism, mainly due to its military interventions in Ukraine, alleged election interference, and suppression of dissent. Its geopolitical strategies and conflict involvement have heightened global tensions, leading to widespread dislike. -
North Korea
Isolated and secretive, North Korea’s authoritarian regime and ongoing development of nuclear weapons have led to international sanctions and sanctions-induced rejection. Its human rights record further fuels negative perceptions globally. -
Israel
Due to ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflicts and military operations in Gaza, Israel often faces global criticism. Its settlement policies and regional disputes contribute substantially to negative perceptions, especially among Arab nations. -
Pakistan
Despite being a key player in regional geopolitics, Pakistan faces scrutiny over its spillover effects from conflicts in neighboring Afghanistan and India, as well as concerns about terrorism and governance issues. -
Iran
International tensions over Iran’s nuclear program, regional influence, and support for various proxy groups have earned it widespread disapproval, especially from Western nations. -
Iraq
Years of conflict, sectarian violence, and political instability still cast a shadow over Iraq’s global image. Safety concerns and ongoing internal disputes influence negative perceptions. -
Syria
The ongoing civil war and humanitarian crisis in Syria have generated global sympathy but also disapproval due to government actions, war crimes, and instability. -
India
While India is praised for its rapid economic growth, issues such as religious tensions, human rights concerns, and border disputes with Pakistan negatively influence its global image. -
United Kingdom
Post-Brexit geopolitical maneuvering and historical colonial legacies have affected perceptions of the UK, with some viewing it as self-interested on the world stage. -
Japan
Despite a peaceful image, Japan faces criticism over its wartime history and territorial disputes with neighboring countries, impacting its global reputation. -
Saudi Arabia
Its human rights record, involvement in regional conflicts, and handling of dissent have caused considerable negative sentiments towards the country, despite its economic influence fueled by oil. -
Germany
Germany’s role in European politics and its handling of migration policies have elicited mixed views, occasionally sparking criticism from neighboring countries. -
Nigeria
Challenges such as corruption, terrorism, and economic instability have contributed to Nigeria’s negative perception in global forums. -
Turkey
Turkey’s assertiveness in the Middle East, suppression of dissent, and political upheaval impact its reputation, making it one of the more disliked nations today. -
South Korea
Despite its technological advancements, South Korea faces tension over North Korea and wartime history issues, which influence international opinion. -
Afghanistan
Ongoing conflict, political instability, and economic struggles continue to make Afghanistan one of the most discouraged countries worldwide. -
Philippines
Political controversies, human rights concerns, and governance issues affect the country’s global standing despite its cultural richness. -
Italy
Italy faces criticism over political corruption, economic challenges, and its handling of immigration, impacting perceptions. -
Somalia
With ongoing conflict and piracy, Somalia remains associated with instability and lawlessness in the international community. -
Qatar
Despite its wealth, Qatar faces criticism for regional diplomacy and labor rights issues, influencing its global reputation. -
Argentina
Economic crises and political instability have tarnished Argentina’s image, though it is admired for its culture and resilience. -
Australia
Environmental policies, Indigenous rights issues, and regional diplomatic stances contribute to mixed and sometimes negative perceptions. -
Algeria
Political repression, protests, and economic challenges have impacted Algeria’s standing in global opinion.

Disclaimer: This list is based on data from the World Population Review in 2025. It reflects current global attitudes and does not represent personal opinions.
Sources: World Population Review 2025





