Public trust in science, which peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic, has declined in recent years. According to Bloomberg, citing data from the Wellcome Global Monitor, the drop in trust has been most pronounced among people facing financial hardship. The Wellcome Global Monitor tracks public attitudes toward science.

More than 140 thousand people worldwide participated in the surveys. In 2025, 72% of respondents expressed trust in science. By comparison, this figure stood at 80% in 2020 and 77% in 2018.

New studies were conducted against the backdrop of spreading fake news and conspiracy theories, which hinder efforts to combat health threats. Bloomberg notes that scientific institutions in some countries are facing political pressure and a lack of funding.