CCFR:  "Strong majorities agree that the United States should be more willing to make decisions within the UN even if this means the United States will have to go along with a policy that is not its first choice. Significantly, a clear majority of the public favors changing UN Security Council rules so that no single member could veto a decision favored by all other members."

Zogby: "Nearly three in five (58%) say the UN is needed more than ever, while about two in five (38%) believe the international body is less relevant. Four percent say neither or not sure. These numbers are virtually unchanged from September of last year, with a slight increase in those saying the UN is less relevant (38%, up from 34% 10 months ago). A majority or plurality in nearly all sub-groups agree that the UN is needed now more than ever.

Poll Results

CCFR Question 4 (1-14):  I am going to read a list of possible foreign policy goals that the United States might have. For each one please say whether you think that it should be a very important foreign policy goal of the United States, a somewhat important foreign policy goal, or not an important goal at all. Strengthening the United Nations.

Leaders:
40% Very Important
42% Somewhat Important
(combined, 9% increase from 02)

Public:
38% Very Important
43% Somewhat Important

CCFR Question 50/6: In order to combat international terrorism, please say whether you favor or oppose each of the following measures.  Working through the UN to strengthen international laws against terrorism and to make sure UN members enforce them.

Leaders:
94% Favor
5% Oppose

Public:
87% Favor
9% Oppose

CCFR Question 90: I’m going to read you a statement. Please tell me if you agree or disagree. When dealing with international problems, the U.S. should be more willing to make decisions within the United Nations even if this means that the United States will sometimes have to go along with a policy that is not its first choice.

Leaders:
78% Agree
20% Disagree

Public:
66% Agree
29% Disagree

CCFR Question 100: Thinking about specific steps that could be taken to strengthen the UN (United Nations), here are some options that have been proposed. For each one, tell me if you would favor or oppose this step

100/1. Giving the UN the power to regulate the international arms trade.

Leaders:
55% Agree
40% Disagree

Public:
57% Agree
36% Disagree

 100/3:  Giving the UN the power to fund its activities by imposing a small tax on such things as the international sale of arms or oil.

Leaders:
46% Agree
49% Disagree

Public:
49% Agree
45% Disagree

Zogby Question 33 :  Some argue that the United Nations has been reduced in its influence and is less relevant today in global matters. Others say that the UN is needed now more than ever to represent a global perspective in issues that arise. Which of those statements comes closer to your own views?

58% UN needed more than ever
38% UN is less relevant
4% Neither/Not sure

Last Updated October 17, 2005