# Global trust in science trends > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-trust-in-science-trends > Updated: 2026-10-28T05:22:17.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. The Wellcome Global Monitor 2026 report indicates that global trust in science declined to 72 per cent in 2025, down from a peak of 80 per cent during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and 77 per cent in 2018. Outright skepticism has risen to 19%, compared to 13% in previous years. Research suggests trust is heavily influenced by socioeconomic status and healthcare confidence. Those living comfortably are nearly twice as likely to report “a lot” of trust in science compared to those struggling financially. Additionally, while 81% of respondents acknowledge the personal benefits of scientific research, only 37% believe these advancements are equitably distributed. Regional data shows significant variation. Western and Southern Europe are noted as areas where trust remained above 2018 levels, with Spain (67.9%) and Finland (65.9%) reporting high levels. In contrast, trust declined in sub-Saharan Africa, with Togo (5.8%), North Macedonia (8.2%), and Somalia (9.1%) recording some of the lowest levels. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-28: Wellcome Global Monitor report shows decline in global trust in science The Wellcome Global Monitor 2026 report shows global trust in science has dropped to 72%, down from an 80% pandemic peak, as skepticism rises and socioeconomic disparities impact public confidence. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/wellcome-global-monitor-report-shows-decline-in-global-trust-in-science ### 2026-10-11: Wellcome Global Monitor reports decline in global trust in science The Wellcome Global Monitor 2026 reveals global trust in science has fallen to 72 per cent, with the steepest declines observed among those facing financial struggles. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/wellcome-global-monitor-reveals-shifts-in-public-trust-in-science --- Cite as: Global trust in science trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-trust-in-science-trends