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Elite Perceptions of the United States in Europe and Asia

Core Content

This report, published by Chatham House, examines the perceptions of the United States among influential elites in 13 countries across Europe and Asia. It highlights the importance of understanding these views for shaping effective foreign policy and improving international relations. The study gathered approximately 1,000-word essays from elites in the public, private, academia/think-tanks, and media sectors, and was further validated by a roundtable discussion in October 2013.

Main Findings

• Elite Views on the US:

  • Elites generally view American business, particularly entrepreneurs and innovators, more positively than the US government.
  • The media and academia are also respected, though to a lesser extent.
  • The US president is the most influential figure in Asia, and to a lesser degree in Europe.
  • There is a widespread perception that the US is becoming less committed to its traditional values, which has led to accusations of hypocrisy.

• Formation of Views:

  • For European elites, personal visits and interactions with Americans are key to shaping perceptions.
  • In Asia, the focus is more on specific policies, especially those related to the region.
  • The US's tripartite system of government is poorly understood abroad, leading to perceptions of dysfunction or inaction.
  • American values, particularly on issues like gun control, gay rights, and abortion, are seen as inconsistent with its foreign policy rhetoric.

• Elite vs Public Opinion:

  • While public opinion often reflects broader sentiments, elite views are more nuanced and informed by personal and professional experiences.
  • The US is perceived as increasingly unpredictable and unreliable by its allies, which can affect the credibility of its foreign policy.
  • The general public still holds a favorable view of the US, especially in terms of individual liberty, but there is strong opposition to drone strikes and mass surveillance.

Key Policy Implications

• Support for Non-State Actors:
  The US should support entrepreneurs and innovators as they are seen as more trustworthy and effective in promoting American values and building people-to-people links.

• Leadership and Communication:
  US foreign policy announcements are most impactful when made by the president. Clear communication of policy intentions is essential to avoid misperceptions and build trust.

• Clarification of the US Political System:
  Better understanding of the US political system can help reduce misperceptions of dysfunction and inaction, particularly in Europe.

• Soft Power vs. Hard Power:
  Europeans value American soft power (values, diplomacy), while Asians prioritize hard power (military strength). This distinction affects how the US can influence these regions.

• Strategic Uncertainty:
  Elites are uncertain about the future direction of US policy in Europe and Asia. A clear and consistent strategy or vision can help mitigate this uncertainty and reassure partners.

US Foreign Policy Objectives in Asia and Europe

• Asia:
  The US is pursuing a "pivot" or rebalancing strategy towards the Asia-Pacific, aiming to strengthen alliances and manage relations with China. This includes enhancing diplomatic presence, military presence, and economic ties. The US is also engaging with multilateral institutions like APEC and ASEAN to foster cooperation.

• Europe:
  The US is shifting focus from Europe to Asia, but this does not mean Europe is no longer important. The US seeks closer economic ties, such as through the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and relies on Europe's stability for its broader strategic goals. Despite this shift, the transatlantic relationship remains a key opportunity for mutual benefit.

Importance of Perceptions in Foreign Policy

• Perceptions vs. Reality:
  Perceptions, whether accurate or not, significantly influence political influence and international relations. Positive perceptions enhance soft power, while negative ones can lead to resentment and reduced influence.

• Historical Context:
  The idea of American decline has been debated since the late 1980s. Recent discussions suggest a consensus that the US is on a path of relative decline, which has implications for its ability to project power and influence.

• Misperceptions and Consequences:
  Misperceptions, even when values remain aligned, can lead to adverse consequences. For example, the pivot was sometimes interpreted as a comment on Europe's declining relevance, which was seen as an insult. In Asia, the pivot was perceived as a shift against China, potentially increasing regional tensions.

International Public Opinion Polls

• Global Popularity:
  The US remains popular globally, with a median of 63% of respondents holding favorable views according to the Pew Global Attitudes Project.

• Leadership and Approval:
  President Obama was initially highly popular, but his approval ratings declined by 2013, especially in China and other parts of Asia. Despite this, the US is still seen as a non-enemy and is viewed as acting unilaterally rather than as a threat.

• Drones and Surveillance:
  There is strong opposition to drone strikes and mass surveillance in both Europe and Asia, indicating a need for the US to address these concerns to maintain its international standing.

Conclusion

The report emphasizes that the success of US foreign policy in Europe and Asia depends not only on the substance of policies but also on how they are perceived. By understanding and addressing these perceptions, the US can better align its policies with the expectations of its international partners and improve its global influence.