COVID-19 and Trust in International Cooperation

Publication: Policy Brief

2020 is the 75th anniversary year of the United Nations (UN), and it has already shaped up to be a year of unprecedented international shocks and potential for transformation, from COVID-19’s impact to the current mobilization for racial justice in many areas of the world. What does this mean for global trust in international cooperation and multilateral institutions?

Secretary-General Records Video Message on Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Children(UNPhoto/Eskinder Debebe).

This briefing by Karina Gerlach and Robert Kang examines recent global polling data, finding a growing demand for international cooperation but diminished trust in international institutions to play a role in the response to COVID-19. It also looks at shifts in member state leadership and perceptions of United States-China rivalry, arguing that middle power alliances and regional networks offer a path forward for international cooperation even in difficult circumstances.

Download the full briefing here.

More Resources

  • Painting of the UN logo in black on a square/orange frame.
    Publication: Analysis September 16, 2025 Promoting and Defending Multilateralism

    Unlocking Reform Capacity

    What does the UN80 reform initiative reveal about the limits of United Nations (UN) reform, and how can member states, UN staff, and policymakers avoid ritualized repetition while unlocking actionable reform pathways? This paper proposes 10 recommendations to shift from reactive reform to institutional stewardship and structured intergovernmental engagement

Stay Connected

Subscribe to our newsletter and receive regular updates on our latest events, analysis, and resources.

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.