Poll Shows Colombians Ending 2016 with More Optimism

In the last Gallup poll of the year, more Colombians reported seeing a glass half full.

The majority of Colombians continue to report that things are getting worse, not better, in their country. But some have changed their outlook, with 27% of those surveyed by Gallup in a December poll saying that things are improving, up from just 20% in October. Only 58% now say things are getting worse, down from two-thirds (66%) in October.

Colombians list the principal problems facing the nation as corruption, the economy, and security and public order. Corruption, which was listed by 22% of people as one of the country’s biggest issues, is seen to be getting worse. While 80% said it was getting worse in October, that percentage increased to 83% in December.

The economic outlook has improved somewhat, however, with 19% of respondents now saying it is improving compared to just 14% in October. This mimics the small increase in optimism for the job market, with 22% now saying that it is improving. Only 17% thought employment was getting better in October.

Still, the overwhelming consensus view believes that the cost of living is too high in Colombia. Nearly nine of out 10 people (89%) thought the cost of living was getting worse in October. That has fallen slightly, but 85% continue to feel that the situation is worsening.

On the international front, Colombians are generally happy with their country’s foreign relations. Almost two-thirds (64%) believe the nation’s international relations with the world are improving, although the change of leadership of its main ally could threaten that perspective.

Colombians adore Barack Obama, giving him an 87% approval rating. By comparison, the incoming U.S. head of state, President-elect Donald Trump, is viewed unfavorably by 68% of respondents.