Most people see globalisation as beneficial, but almost half of those surveyed believe poor countries do not benefit as much as rich countries, according to a poll conducted by the World Economic Forum.

The poll covered 67 per cent of the world's population in 25 selected countries and was the largest ever conducted on globalisation, which was defined as increased trade and investment, according to Mr Charles McLean, director of communications for the forum.

Six in 10 people see globalisation as beneficial and one in five as negative, the poll showed.

It found that in 19 of the countries surveyed, most people expect more economic globalisation will be positive for themselves and their families.

A majority see a worsening situation on jobs, poverty, homelessness and the environment because of globalisation, but most people (63 per cent) believe it would bring better life to them personally.

Just over half say globalisation will enhance stability, national culture, human rights and democracy.

A majority of people in every country - except South Korea - agree that they would pay 1 per cent more in taxes to help the world's poor.

The poll was the first comprehensive survey of the world's population since the anti-globalisation movement gathered pace in the 1990s. People in 12 countries replied "agree" when asked if they would support peaceful anti-globalisation demonstrations.

This question was left off the poll in China, where protest demonstrations are banned. Mr McClean acknowledged that they had had to consult the Chinese authorities before taking the poll there.

The European countries in the poll were Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain. Asia and South America were heavily represented, but the only Arab country surveyed was Qatar.

The organisers said that they had not attempted to do a poll in countries like Egypt because of issues concerning the "propriety" of the questions asked.