Trust In Government Research Articles

Monitoring the Public Health and Safety Impact of the Groningen Gas-Extraction Crisis

Abstract Background Gas extraction in the Dutch province of Groningen began in 1963 and was initially seen as an economic boon for the nation. Yet, it turned into a significant burden for the region, leading to earthquakes, damage to houses and property, complicated compensation processes, recovery, and reinforcement programs, as well as a lack of recognition. In 2016, the research group Gronings Perspectief (GP) was established with the objective of independently monitoring the public health and safety impact of the gas-extraction crisis from the residents’ perspective. Methods Monitoring activities take place in dialogue with sounding boards comprising residents, professionals, scientists, and local and national governments. GP employs a longitudinal mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods. Representative panel surveys are conducted yearly among residents in the provinces of Groningen (twice) and Drenthe (once). Additionally, 20 in-depth interviews are carried out each year, alongside a survey among households in the reinforcement program. GP analyses the periodic health monitors conducted by municipal health authorities. All reports are publicly accessible. Results Since 2016, monitoring consistently points to a profound and enduring effect of housing damage on health and well-being, subjective safety, risk perceptions, trust in governments and agencies among residents. The impact of the procedural burden imposed by governments and institutions, is as significant as the effects of earthquakes and housing damage. Conclusions GP’s findings were included in a parliamentary inquiry, which concluded in 2023 that the interests of residents were persistently neglected in favour of economic gain. New risk reduction and reconciliation programs are introduced. Despite the recent decision to end the gas extraction, continuation of GP is needed to monitor further developments. Key messages • GP’s stakeholder-driven monitoring approach made the impact of the gas-extraction crisis visible. • Enduring public health and safety risks, beyond the gas extraction, require continuing monitoring.

Citizen’s perspective on pandemic preparedness

Abstract In the aftermath of COVID-19, pandemic preparedness has become a key concern for governments and public health institutes across the world. As policymakers and scientist grapple with the lessons learned and implications for pandemic preparedness, it is also imperative to take the perspectives of citizens into account. To explore the perceptions and expectations regarding pandemic preparedness, the Behavioural Unit of RIVM conducted a qualitative follow-up study amongst a representative sample of Dutch citizens. At different locations in the Netherlands focus groups were organized with diverse participants. The topic guide was based on an analysis of a previously administered pandemic preparedness questionnaire and theoretical framework, also presented in the current workshop. Topics included risk perceptions, trust in government and other institutions versus self-reliance and the role of media and communication. Furthermore, pandemic preparedness was contrasted with other forms of disaster and crisis management. During the presentation the latest results are shared, and we will discuss possible policy recommendations and how the general public can be involved to develop a better understanding of their needs with respect to preparedness.

Perceived political incivility and trust in government: the moderating roles of election news exposure and favorability of election outcomes*

ABSTRACT While extensive research has shown that political incivility can lead to unfavorable democratic outcomes, our understanding of the dynamics in election campaigns is limited. The current study investigates the effects of perceived political incivility on trust in government by taking into account both informational and motivational factors during elections: the distinct channels through which individuals receive election news (institutional, social media, and messaging applications) and whether the election outcome is (un)favorable to the individual. Drawing from the literatures on online incivility and motivated reasoning, we argue that both election news exposure and favorability of election outcomes could moderate the effects of perceived incivility. We conducted a two-wave panel survey (pre- and post-election) during the 2022 Malaysian General Election (Wave-1 N = 1800; Wave-2 N = 901). We found that increased incivility perceptions over time and unfavorable election results diminished trust in government, and there was evidence that increased exposure to election news from institutional news sources increased trust in government from pre- to post-election. For those who found the election outcome unfavorable, increased social media exposure resulted in a greater loss of trust in the government in response to increased perceptions of incivility during the campaign. These results underscore the importance of both informational (news media) and motivational (favorability of election outcome) factors, as well as their combined effects on individuals’ responses to political incivility during elections.

Research on the Impact and Solution Strategies of Blockchain Technology on Data Security and Transparency in Enterprise Digital Transformation

Abstract: This research delves into the profound impact of blockchain technology on enhancing data security and transparency during enterprises digital transformation. By dissecting blockchains core attributesdecentralization, immutability, and advanced securitythis study elucidates how it offers pragmatic solutions to prevalent challenges such as data breaches and opaque information processing. Leveraging an extensive literature review, meticulous case analysis, and expert insights, the article comprehensively illustrates blockchains diverse applications in ensuring data integrity and enhancing transparency across critical sectors, including financial services, supply chain management, and healthcare. Furthermore, the study identifies and deliberates on existing research gaps in blockchain technologys application within digital transformation, proposing a systematic framework to deepen comprehension of its role in this process. Moreover, it conducts an in-depth analysis of the technical, operational, and environmental hurdles hindering blockchain adoption, offering a series of action strategies to enable enterprises to harness their potential effectively amidst the swiftly evolving digital landscape. Through this comprehensive inquiry, the article underscores the strategic significance of blockchain technology in augmenting corporate operational transparency and data security. Additionally, it elucidates how blockchain can bolster corporate governance, compliance, and stakeholder trust. Overall, this synthesis provides a thorough review and profound insights into research findings, underscoring blockchains pivotal role in addressing contemporary digital challenges while furnishing invaluable strategic guidance for industry innovation and advancement. The research outcomes hold substantial implications for practitioners and researchers, signaling the transformative potential of blockchain technology in reshaping enterprise operations and charting a course for future exploration in this pivotal domain.

Enhancing Performance in Construction Project Management Teams

The seminar paper provides a pragmatic perspective of the topic of enhancing performance in construction project management teams. The paper provides a detailed collated review of several key areas pertaining to construction project management teams and their performance based on the findings of previous research. The study has focused on a range of aspects namely, leadership, competence and capabilities, effective communication, decision-making, interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence, project management and governance approaches, trust, psychological safety, and team culture. Each sub-topic (aspect) has been structured in a manner that includes a brief introduction to the aspect, its importance for construction projects, the current state in construction projects, strategies, and approaches to eliminate the issues and contribute to increase in the team’s overall performance and finally, the novel strategies and tools pertaining to the focus area. The author anticipates that the content provided in this seminar paper shall be beneficial for effective decision making by organizational leadership and for the project leadership and the team to pay more consideration towards the strategies and approaches to enhance the elaborated aspects that are often overlooked in construction projects.

Corruption in the Nigerian Public Sector: Causes, Consequences and Sustainable Solutions

Corruption in Nigeria's public sector has long hindered the nation's development, stability, and prosperity. It permeates various facets of governance and society, leading to detrimental consequences, including economic stagnation, social injustice, and the erosion of public trust. Historical factors, such as the legacy of colonial exploitation and successive post-independence governments' mismanagement, have entrenched a culture of corruption. Despite efforts to combat it, including the establishment of anti-corruption agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), corruption remains pervasive. This study adopts a qualitative research design to explore the complex dynamics of corruption in Nigeria's public sector. Using Albert Bandura's social learning theory as the theoretical framework, and it explores how corrupt behaviors are observed, imitated, and reinforced within the public administration. The research identifies multiple causes of corruption, including institutional weaknesses, economic pressures, and cultural norms, which create an environment conducive to corrupt practices. The consequences of corruption are enormous: It undermines economic growth and development, deters foreign direct investment, exacerbates poverty and inequality, erodes public trust in government, and fuels political unrest and instability. Addressing corruption requires a comprehensive approach involving the strengthening of institutional frameworks, promoting transparency and accountability, improving public sector management, and fostering a culture of ethical leadership. Sustainable solutions to combat corruption include; enhancing the capacities of anti-corruption agencies, to be independent of the executive body, implementing public procurement reforms, ensuring budget transparency, and enforcing stringent anti-corruption measures.

Effects of religion, politics and distance to providers on HPV vaccine attitudes and intentions of parents in rural Utah.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes an estimated 300,000 high grade cervical dysplasias and 36,000 preventable cancers each year in the United States alone. Despite having a safe, effective and long lasting vaccine since 2006, the rate of uptake has been suboptimal, particularly in rural areas. In 2020, Utah ranked near last in teenage HPV vaccination rates with rural areas trailing urban areas by about 18 percent. In this study, we identified factors that affect the intent of rural Utah parents to vaccinate their children against HPV. A survey was distributed electronically to Utah residents in rural areas. Recruitment was carried out through targeted advertising, community organizations, and professional survey panels. The survey was open from Nov. 15, 2022 to April 15, 2023. A total of 410 respondents were used for analysis. Survey results were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. Distance to care was shown to negatively influence direct intent to vaccinate, while trust in government, general vaccine attitudes, and HPV knowledge positively influence intent to vaccinate. It was found that religious practice decreased vaccine hesitancy while cautious sexual attitudes, distance to care, and general negative vaccine attitudes increased vaccine hesitancy. Conservative political identity and high income were both shown to decrease vaccine hesitancy as covariates.

Exploring Public Acceptance of Climate Technologies: A Study on Key Influences in South Korea

The accelerating climate crisis is driving a rapid increase in interest in climate technologies aimed at overcoming it. However, even if effective technologies emerge, their impact may be hindered without public acceptance. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the factors that influence the acceptance of new climate technologies. This exploratory study investigates the key factors influencing public acceptance and the recommendation of climate technologies in South Korea. Utilizing an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, survey data from 200 participants were analyzed. The study identified that facilitating conditions, innovativeness, social influence, and trust in government are the most significant predictors of public intent to accept or recommend climate technologies. The results highlight the critical role of strategic communication, infrastructure, and public trust in promoting the adoption of climate solutions. Furthermore, qualitative interviews suggest that a shift towards Personally Determined Contributions (PDCs) could empower individuals to become proactive agents in climate action. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers, providing a strategic direction to enhance the public’s engagement with climate technologies and foster a more sustainable future.

Trust and accountability in times of crisis

AbstractThe COVID‐19 pandemic took place against the backdrop of growing political polarization and distrust in institutions. Did deficiencies in government performance further erode trust? Did citizens' ideology interfere with how they processed information on government performance? To investigate, we conducted a pre‐registered online experiment in Spain in November 2020. The treatment group was provided with information on the number of contact tracers in their region, a policy under the control of regional governments. We find that individuals greatly overestimate the number of contact tracers. When we provide the actual number, we find declines in trust in governments, willingness to fund public institutions, and COVID‐19 vaccine acceptance. We also find that individuals endogenously change their attribution of responsibilities when receiving the treatment. In regions where the regional and central governments are ruled by different parties, sympathizers of the regional incumbent react to the negative news on performance by attributing greater responsibility to the central government. We call this the ‘blame‐shifting effect’. In these regions, the negative information does not reduce voting intention for the regional incumbent government. These results suggest that political accountability may be particularly difficult in settings with high polarization and where areas of responsibility are not clearly delineated.

Tax Service Quality, Trust in Government and Tax Compliance among Small and Medium Enterprises in North Rift Economic Bloc

Purpose- The study sought to establish the indirect effect of trust in government on the relationship between the tax service quality and tax compliance among SMEs in North Rift Economic Bloc, Kenya.Design/Methodology- Based on the social contract theory, this study has a positivist philosophy that is informed by an explanatory research design. The target population was 21,232 SMEs; the sample size used in this study consisted of 393 SME owners/managers selected through a stratified sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, and Cronbach's alpha with factor analysis was used to establish the instrument's reliability and validity. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to test the hypothesis, and hierarchical regression using the Hayes Process macro was performed.Findings-The study revealed that tax service quality (β =.541, p=.000<0.05) and trust in government (β =.375, p=.000<0.05) are significantly positively related to tax compliance. In addition, the tax service quality was found to have a significant effect on trust in government (β =.395, p =.000<0.05). In addition, the results showed that trust in government mediates the relationship between tax service quality and tax compliance (β =.1482, CI=.0981, .2015).Practical Implications- These findings underscore the need for governments to improve the quality tax services, as this may be able to help in gaining public trust which will ultimately increase SMEs compliance with taxes. There is scope for future research to incorporate mixed-method approaches in order to discover yet more factors affecting tax compliance.

Correlates of public compliance with COVID-19 regulations in Taiwan

PurposeThis study explores the determinants of public willingness to comply with COVID-19 regulations to address the research gap at the intersection of public health and law enforcement within the unique sociocultural context of Taiwan.Design/methodology/approachUtilizing survey data from New Taipei City in 2021, the analysis involved multiple linear regression models to assess the influences of psychological conditions (i.e. distress and self-efficacy), community compliance and perceptions of government (i.e. general trust in government and specific perceptions of police procedural justice) on compliance tendencies while controlling for individual demographics.FindingsThe results indicated that self-efficacy, perceived community compliance, trust in government, and police procedural justice are positively associated with public compliance with COVID-19 regulations. Among these variables, trust in government and police procedural justice were identified as the most prominent factors, followed by self-efficacy and perceived community compliance. As demographic factors such as age, gender and education did not significantly affect willingness to comply, psychological, social and governmental influences are more powerful determinants of compliance than static demographic characteristics.Originality/valueThis study provides empirical evidence from Taiwan on the factors shaping public compliance during an unprecedented global pandemic. It highlights the importance of fostering governmental trust and enhancing police procedural justice during periods of stability to secure compliance with public health directives in times of crisis.

Understanding Tax Morale: A Critical Review of Its Impact on Compliance and Policy

This research aims to analyse tax morale’s effect on compliance, focusing on socioeconomic, cultural, and institutional influences, particularly in developing economies. We utilise a literature review to explore theoretical and empirical insights into tax morale and compliance, assessing the impact of trust, fairness, and governance. Key factors like government trust and fairness perceptions are identified as crucial to tax morale. We also highlight the role of corporate governance in shaping compliance strategies. This study enhances understandings of tax morale’s determinants and compliance implications, offering a theoretical framework for future research. As such, we recommend policy and educational measures to improve tax morale and compliance, emphasising the importance of trust and fairness. However, the review’s scope is limited to available literature, suggesting empirical research is needed to validate these findings further. Keywords: board of directors, determinants of tax morale, tax compliance, tax morale

Analisis Penerapan Manajemen Keuangan Syariah pada Pengelolaan Dana Bantuan Operasional Sekolah (BOS) di Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Negeri 2 Tanjung Jabung Barat

Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Negeri 2 Tanjung Jabung Barat is one of the school located in the village with quite a large number of students. As a school that focuses on Islamic religious subjects, school need to understand the principles of sharia financial management in managing School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds in order to avoid problems that can hinder the educational process. Therefore, this research aims to evaluate and analyze the application of sharia financial management in managing BOS funds in school. This research uses qualitative methods with descriptive research type. The data sources used are primary and secondary data. Data collection methods include observation, interviews, documentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the research show that the implementation of sharia financial management in managing BOS funds at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Negeri 2 Tanjung Jabung Barat, especially the implementation of planning, organizing, implementing and controlling functions, has been carried out well; However, transparency of information to the committee still needs to be improved. The use of funds needs to be aligned with priority needs for better efficiency, and detailed reporting is not yet fully optimal. Increasing transparency and committee involvement is very important to increase public trust in Madrasah financial governance.

Unpacking Young Adults’ Voting Preferences: The Role of Neighborhood Trust

Compared to previous generations, young adults today report lower levels of trust in government, law enforcement, and their communities. This study investigates neighborhood factors influencing social trust among Arizona young adults during the lead-up to the 2020 presidential election. Through an analysis of online survey data for a sample of young adults ( N = 1,376) who participated in the Arizona Youth Identity Project, we explore how neighborhood diversity, population density, racial identity, and political affiliation are associated with social trust and voting preferences. We find that Arizona young adults’ trust in police and their neighbors varies by neighborhood diversity and racial identity, with residents of mostly White neighborhoods reporting higher levels of trust. Additionally, support for Trump is highest among young adults who expressed high trust in local police. This study underscores and begins to unpack the interplay between race, space, and trust in shaping political identities and preferences.

Assessing changes in COVID-19 vaccine uptake and intentions among the Brigada Digital Latino social media audience: a repeated cross-sectional study

BackgroundU.S. Latinos experienced disproportionate COVID-19 impacts in terms of morbidity and mortality. Vaccination against COVID-19 is an important strategy for mitigating health impacts, and yet, vaccine uptake was slower among U.S. Latino adults compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Vaccine hesitancy has been a significant barrier within Latino communities, and exposure to misinformation has been associated with negative attitudes toward vaccination. While some COVID-19 mitigation efforts have included community-based outreach, few studies have explored the impact of community-based digital messaging in Spanish to counter COVID-19 misinformation, build trust, and promote vaccination. To address this gap, we conducted a one-year repeated cross-sectional study to assess changes in COVID-19 vaccine uptake, intentions, and perceived norms, as well as barriers to accessing reliable information and levels of trust in COVID-19 information sources among Latino adults exposed to Brigada Digital de Salud social media content. This culturally-tailored content disseminated on Facebook, Instagram, and X platforms was amplified by community health workers and partners, and focused on COVID-19 risk and prevention, vaccine safety and efficacy, and correcting related misinformation.ResultsStatistically significant increases in COVID-19 vaccination and intentions to vaccinate children were observed from May 2022 (wave 1) to April 2023 (wave 2). Among perceived difficulties accessing information, respondents indicated the most difficulty in judging the reliability of COVID-19 information in the media; however, a statistically significant decrease in perceived difficulty was observed between waves. With regard to trust in COVID-19 information sources, levels of trust were highest for healthcare providers in both waves, and there were statistically significant increases in trust in the FDA to ensure COVID-19 vaccine safety and trust in the federal government to ensure child COVID-19 vaccine safety at wave 2.ConclusionsSocial media messaging by trusted community-based sources shows promise as a strategy for combating health misinformation and ameliorating information access gaps for language minority populations. This digital approach represents an important tool for deploying critical information to underserved populations in public health emergency and crisis contexts, and for supporting changes in attitudes, trust, and behaviors to improve health outcomes.

Effects of Contractual and Relational Governance on Project Performance: The Role of BIM Application Level

This study aims to explore the moderating role of Building Information Modeling (BIM) between project governance and project performance. The theoretical foundation of this research is rooted in transaction cost economics. The data come from the construction industry in China’s Sichuan province. A dataset comprising 175 survey responses was subjected to analysis through the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method. The findings confirm that contract completeness and contract flexibility positively influence project performance, and trust in relational governance also has a positive impact on project performance. Additionally, the level of BIM application moderates the relationships between contract flexibility and trust with project performance. However, a significant positive relationship between contract completeness and project performance was not observed. These findings establish a groundwork for transitioning project governance research from a static to a dynamic viewpoint, thereby facilitating the practical implementation of BIM technology. As a result, this study enriches the academic comprehension of governance amidst digital transformation and provides actionable suggestions for fostering efficient governance practices within a technologically progressive landscape.

Application of SAK ETAP in the Financial Statements of Savings and Loans Cooperative

The general background the financial statements of cooperatives are essential for transparent and accountable operations, particularly in non-public entities like Savings and Loans Cooperatives. Specific background the Savings and Loans Cooperative (KSP) "BAHAGIA" has been operating since 1980, but the application of SAK ETAP (Financial Accounting Standards for Entities Without Public Accountability) in its financial reporting remains incomplete, particularly in its notes to financial statements and cash flow presentation. Knowledge gap while SAK ETAP provides a standardized framework, many cooperatives, including KSP "BAHAGIA," struggle to fully implement it due to a lack of understanding and technical capacity. This study aims to analyze the extent to which SAK ETAP is applied in KSP "BAHAGIA"'s financial reports, identify gaps in compliance, and offer recommendations for improvement. Results the findings reveal that while KSP "BAHAGIA" adheres to some SAK ETAP requirements, such as balance sheets and income statements, significant discrepancies exist in the notes to financial statements and the exclusion of investment property in cash flow reports. Novelty this research highlights a critical gap in financial reporting for non-public cooperatives, emphasizing the need for targeted education and training for cooperative management in SAK ETAP compliance. Implications the study's recommendations can help KSP "BAHAGIA" and similar cooperatives improve financial transparency, ultimately enhancing member trust and cooperative governance. Highlights: Incomplete SAK ETAP implementation affects financial transparency in cooperatives. Key discrepancies found in notes to financial statements and cash flow reporting. Improved SAK ETAP education for cooperative management is crucial for compliance. Keywords: Financial Reporting, Cooperatives, SAK ETAP, Non-Public Entities, Compliance

Residents’ behavioral support for tourism in a burgeoning rural destination

This study aimed to test a model derived from the social exchange theory and the theory of planned behavior in determining the role that antecedents play in explaining residents' behavioral support for tourism in a rapidly developing destination. Data were collected from 511 residents of McCurtain County in Oklahoma, USA, using onsite interception and online sampling strategies. Based on a two-step structural equation modeling analysis, eight out of the 10 proposed hypotheses were supported. Of the four potential predictors of residents’ attitudinal support for tourism, perceived benefits, perceived costs, and trust in local government were significant, explaining 63% of the variance in the construct. Attitudinal support, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control then significantly explained 84% of the variance in behavioral intentions to support tourism. These intentions, in turn, significantly explained 44% of the variance in behavioral support for tourism. Implications, limitations, and future research suggestions are discussed at the close of the article. Management ImplicationsResidents' support for tourism within McCurtain County in Oklahoma, USA, is not very strong mostly because residents do not feel that they can trust the government in making decisions regarding tourism and that they have limited power to contribute to tourism planning and management. To address the lack of trust in government, efforts should be made to increase transparency in tourism decision-making. This could occur through the greater inclusion of residents in planning sessions and sharing reports with the public (e.g., sharing minutes and reports via websites, radios, newspapers, etc.). The government should find ways to include more residents in tourism-related decision-making that will affect not only tourism businesses but also the community as a whole. This could look like a regular assessment of residents’ perspectives through conducting surveys, holding focus group interviews, or hosting town hall meetings.

Employee Performance in Population Services Quality Timeliness and Technology Use

General Background: Employee performance in public administration is crucial for service quality. Specific Background: This study examines employee performance in population administration services at Kupang Village, Jabon District, Sidoarjo Regency, focusing on community needs and technological adaptation. Knowledge Gap: While prior research has addressed public service performance, gaps exist regarding specific performance indicators in local contexts. Aims: This study aims to analyze performance using five indicators: Work Quality, Timeliness, Initiative, Ability, and Communication. Results: Findings show optimal work quality and initiative, yet timeliness and ability are partially lacking due to attendance issues and varying technological skills. Novelty: This research highlights the interplay between employee competencies and community demographics. Implications: Enhancing training in technology and establishing clear protocols could significantly improve service delivery and community satisfaction, fostering better governance and public trust. Highlights: Optimal Work Quality: Employees demonstrate high-quality service through detailed work and effective communication with the community. Need for Timeliness: Issues with employee punctuality impact overall service delivery and community satisfaction. Technological Competency: Varying levels of technology use among employees highlight the need for targeted training and support. Keywords: Employee Performance, Service Quality, Community Needs, Population Administration

Public Communication Strategy in the Protest of Garbage Collector Workers

Background: Public perception is vital for government trust and communication. Specific Background: Protests by waste collectors in Sidoarjo impacted the government's image due to controversial waste management fees. Knowledge Gap: Few studies explore the role of government communication in shaping public perception during local policy protests. Aims: This study analyzes the Sidoarjo Communication Office's efforts to maintain a positive image post-protests. Results: The office's inadequate response, especially its failure to engage protestors, worsened negative media coverage. Novelty: The study underscores the importance of transparent crisis communication. Implications: Local governments must strengthen communication strategies to manage public sentiment and maintain credibility during crises. Highlights : Transparent communication prevents negative public sentiment. Lack of engagement worsens media narratives. Robust strategies are needed to maintain government credibility. Keywords: public perception, crisis communication, waste management, local government, Sidoarjo protests