December 21, 2005

Good News about Foreign Aid

Dan Drezner points us to this survey showing that the public opinion about the US in Pakistan is dramatically better, and linked to earthquake relief.


For the first time since 9/11, more Pakistanis are now favorable to the United States than unfavorable.

78% of Pakistanis have a more favorable opinion of the United States because of the American response to the earthquake, with the strongest support among those under 35.

79% of those with confidence in Bin Laden now have a more favorable view of the US because of American earthquake aid.

81% said that earthquake relief was important for them in forming their overall opinion of the United States.

Before anyone takes this as a mandate, note this:

While opinion of the United States itself improved significantly, this did not translate into increased support for US-led efforts to fight terrorism. Tellingly, those who oppose US efforts against terrorism grew, from 52% in May to 64% now.

Posted by binky at December 21, 2005 10:07 AM | TrackBack | Posted to International Affairs


Comments

Yeah. It seems that US is doing well in it's campaign of winning hearts and minds in Pakistan.

Posted by: Kashif at December 21, 2005 11:23 AM | PERMALINK

It seems to me that the results of the poll show exactly the opposite. Trying to win hearts and minds (and favor for the war on terror) is pretty pointless. Being a good global citizen (surprise surprise) actually creates good relations.

Posted by: binky at December 21, 2005 11:24 AM | PERMALINK

It's not "pointless" - just extremely, EXTREMELY difficult in Pakistan. :)

Posted by: Armand at December 21, 2005 11:58 AM | PERMALINK

You're right, I don't mean pointless in general. How about this: trying to buy love in Pakistan has been counterproductive, and assuming this support (from the earthquake aid) means support for the war on terra is wrongheaded.

Posted by: binky at December 21, 2005 12:13 PM | PERMALINK
Post a comment









Remember personal info?