OECD survey - Trust in politics only weak in industrialized countries
Citizen trust in their government is weak in 30 investigated industrialized countries. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris, 44 percent of interviewees had no or only little trust. Conversely, 39 percent reported having a high or relatively high level of trust in their respective national government.
According to the OECD, numerous factors play a role, including economic shocks, the war in Ukraine and other conflicts, such as those in the Middle East, as well as changes due to technological innovations, climate change, or societal aging. Men tend to trust their governments more frequently than women.
The OECD interviewed citizens in 30 industrialized countries for the study, but the interviews were conducted as early as the end of 2023. It is crucial whether people feel they have a say in political decisions. People who feel they have a voice reported having trust or relatively high trust in the government to the tune of 69 percent. Citizens who see no influence opportunities for themselves had only 22 percent trust.
Only 30 percent of respondents, according to the OECD, believe that the state can resist the influence of companies. Likewise, only 32 percent believe that opinions expressed in public hearings will be reflected in government decisions. The OECD therefore recommended involving citizens more in decisions and advised interest groups to communicate more actively.
The OECD survey revealed that men in industrialized countries tend to have higher levels of trust in their governments compared to women. This trust gap is a notable finding in the political landscape of these countries. The survey also revealed that industrialized countries, facing challenges such as economic shocks, conflicts, and technological changes, have seen a decline in overall citizen trust in their governments. The report emphasized the importance of involving citizens more in decision-making processes and promoting transparency to foster trust, especially among women.
