Singapore is known for its efficient public services and stable governance. However, like any society, there are varying levels of trust and distrust towards public institutions in the country.
Edelman Trust Barometer 2021
According to the Edelman Trust Barometer 2021, Singapore has a high level of trust in its government institutions, with 79% of respondents indicating trust in the government. This is significantly higher than the global average of 53%. The same survey also found that trust in Singapore’s media institutions stands at 63%, above the global average of 51%.
Reasons for This High Level
One reason for this high level of trust could be attributed to Singapore’s track record of effective governance and low levels of corruption. The country has consistently ranked high on international indices measuring corruption, such as the Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International.
In addition, Singapore’s public institutions have also shown resilience during times of crisis, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government’s swift response and clear communication during the pandemic have been praised both domestically and internationally.
Areas Where Distrust Exists
However, despite the high level of trust in public institutions, there are still areas where distrust exists. One notable area is in the realm of politics, where opposition parties have long struggled to gain a foothold in Singapore’s tightly controlled political landscape. In the 2020 General Election, the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) won a decisive victory, with the opposition parties winning just 10% of the seats.
There is also some level of distrust towards the police force, particularly among minority communities. The Black Lives Matter protests in the United States in 2020 sparked conversations about racism and police brutality in Singapore, with some members of minority communities sharing their own experiences of discrimination and profiling by law enforcement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is a high level of trust in public institutions in Singapore, it is not without its areas of distrust. As with any society, there are always areas for improvement and progress. Continued efforts towards transparency, accountability, and inclusivity could help to further strengthen the public’s trust in Singapore’s institutions. You may be interested in At the Top of All Tops. What Ratings Are Headed by Singapore?
