Islamabad (TDI): A majority of Pakistanis are entering 2026 with optimism, particularly regarding economic prospects and global peace, according to the latest End of Year Survey conducted by Gallup Pakistan.
The findings show that 53% of Pakistanis believe 2026 will be a year of economic prosperity, significantly higher than the global average of 24%.
The survey also found that 52% of Pakistanis expect the world to be more peaceful in the coming year, while 51% said they are optimistic about the year ahead, compared with only 20% who felt pessimistic. These figures indicate a strong net positive outlook for the country and its citizens.
Overall, Pakistan outperformed the global average across three key indicators: general optimism, expectations for economic prosperity, and hope for global peace.
Despite ongoing global uncertainties, including economic challenges and geopolitical tensions, the survey indicates that Pakistanis remain confident and optimistic about 2026.
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The results present a relatively positive outlook for the country’s economy and expectations for global peace compared with regional and international counterparts.
Gallup Pakistan noted that this level of hope and optimism is among the highest recorded since 1994, exceeded only during a few peak periods in the late 1990s and mid-2010s.
On measures of overall hope, economic optimism, and expectations for peace, Pakistan ranks ahead of India on two fronts and surpasses the global average on all three.
The survey, part of the Gallup International Association’s global End of Year study, covered 60 countries with nearly 60,000 respondents.
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Conducted annually since 1978 worldwide and implemented in Pakistan since 1994, the survey provides a long-standing and reliable measure of public sentiment and international comparison.
The positive outlook reflects growing public confidence in ongoing economic reforms and potential improvements in key sectors, despite challenges that the country continues to face.
Michael Nitsche, President of the Gallup International Association, noted that given the challenging global economic conditions and widespread concerns about peace, there is a growing need for proactive leaders in business, culture, and politics.
Minahil Khurshid holds a master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from CIPS, NUST. She has a strong interest in current affairs, geopolitics, and policy analysis.
