A BBC poll of 32 nations (37,500 people) found Iraq and Afghanistan to be among the most optimistic countries when it comes to their economic future. "Italians join people in Zimbabwe and DR Congo as the most downcast about their future":

• In Afghanistan, 70% say their own circumstances are improving, and 57% believe that the country overall is on the way up.
• In Iraq, 65% believe their personal life is getting better, and 56% are upbeat about the country's economy.
• 90% of Zimbabweans say their country's economy is getting worse, and 84% are dubious about their own financial future.
• 55% of respondents say the World Bank has a positive influence in the world.