For the first time, Transparency International Canada releases a report on domestic corruption perceptions
Every three years, Transparency International publishes the renowned Global Corruption Barometer. Now, TI Canada has produced a domestic study focusing exclusively on Western Canada. The Western Canada Corruption Barometer comprises two reports: one looking at the public’s perceptions and experiences with corruption, and another focusing on the extractive sector industry.
Western Canadians perceive federal political parties as the institution most affected by corruption. Forty-seven percent of the public believes federal political parties face corruption issues, followed closely by 55% of extractive sector respondents. TI Canada Executive Director, James Cohen said “The results are troubling. Negative perceptions of public institutions reflect a breakdown of trust of the public towards public institutions. Political parties at all levels have a responsibility to reflect on the causes of these results.”
When assessing their own industry, the extractive sector was more optimistic than the public. Corruption is seen as a problem in the oil and gas industry by 49% of the public, with residents of B.C. more likely to view the sector as “extremely corrupt” (26%), compared to Alberta (19%) and Saskatchewan (18%). Overall, 63% of extractive industry respondents did not see corruption as a big problem in their own sector, but some follow up interviews with executives did reveal concerns about ‘grey areas’ of politics and many golf trips and dinners.
On a positive result, most citizens from Western Canada indicated a willingness to fight corruption by reporting it (84%) or spreading information on social media (54%). Cohen elaborated that “we do have strong institutions and rules in Canada. Western Canadians expect fair public service and business. Government, the private sector, and civil society need to do their part to keep the public motivated in checking corruption and not giving in to cynicism.”
For more information, access the Western Canada Corruption Barometer here: