Australians are most proud of the people around them, according to Pew Research Centre‘s global survey of more than 30,000 adults across 25 countries that asked what makes them proud of their nation.
For many Australians, the sense of “mateship” and willingness to help others during emergencies, such as natural disasters, stands out as a defining source of national pride.
A quarter of respondents specifically mentioned these qualities, while others cited the country’s political system (21%) and cultural diversity (19%).
Many Australians also point to the contributions of Aboriginal and Indigenous peoples and the nation’s welcoming attitude toward immigrants and a variety of religions.
“We are a welcoming and tolerant country. We have a high standard of living. “In my part of Australia, we respect everyone’s right to live their life as they want; a farmer or a retail worker is just as important and appreciated as someone in politics or a doctor or a billionaire,” said a 70-year-old Australian woman.
“We, as a nation, love our relaxed and easygoing natures.”
Other respondents highlighted the country’s lifestyle. “Our laid-back attitude, not having the churches in government, our freedom, having good relationships with other countries, slowly acknowledging our First Nations people, the cleanliness of our country, the thought and planning of our cities, and in emergencies and natural disasters, everyone helps and looks out for each other,” said a 50-year-old Australian man.
Similarly, a 30-year-old woman emphasised opportunities and inclusivity: “I feel proud that we live in a wealthy country with a multitude of different cultures. We have great opportunities regarding work and education and generally don’t discriminate about age, race, religion or class.”
“Most Australians I encounter have an outwardly easygoing, honest, open-minded and personable nature.”
The survey also explored national pride in India, where respondents often highlighted the political system (8%), the economy (8%), and current leadership (6%), including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Many pointed to India’s economic growth, agricultural strength, and status as a “land of villages.”
Pride in the people, arts and culture, heritage, and lifestyle were also commonly cited, along with India’s diversity and multiculturalism. “The government is good, the BJP government is good. [They are doing the right thing], giving employment, providing electricity and water 24 hours a day … money for farmers coming directly to the bank under digital India,” said a 35-year-old Indian man.
Other respondents echoed these sentiments: “India is our country, it is a strong country,” said a 24-year-old man. .
“All castes have equal rights to express their views, there is democracy, political parties participate in all the festivals of the country,”
A 50-year-old woman added,
“Our India is a golden bird, which we are very proud of, and it is also an agricultural country, which we are very proud of.”
The findings provide a snapshot of how citizens around the world articulate pride in their nations, reflecting cultural, political, and social values unique to each country.
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