Trust and Accountability: Insights from the National Corruption Perception Survey 2025
Corruption continues to loom large in the collective consciousness of Pakistan, affecting citizens’ trust in public institutions and their perceptions of governance. The National Corruption Perception Survey (NCPS) 2025, conducted by Transparency International (TI) Pakistan, provides a detailed look at how everyday Pakistanis view integrity, accountability, and service delivery.
Surveying 4,000 participants across 20 districts, this latest installment of the NCPS offers a significant expansion from its 2023 counterpart, which included only 1,600 respondents. Conducted between September 22 and 29, the NCPS 2025 not only captures the concerns surrounding corruption but also reflects the pressing demand for institutional reforms.
One of the standout findings from the survey is that 66% of respondents reported they had not encountered situations requiring them to pay a bribe in the past year. This statistic hints at a more nuanced reality: while corruption is a significant issue, day-to-day experiences can vary widely.
Interestingly, about 60% of those surveyed acknowledged recent government efforts to stabilize the economy through initiatives like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program and exiting the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List. This suggests that many citizens recognize challenging decisions made in the political landscape.
The survey highlights improving public perceptions of various institutions. For example, perceptions of the police have grown more favorable by 6%, attributed to positive changes stemming from recent reforms. Other sectors, including local government and education, also show signs of public optimism.
Crucially, the NCPS outlines a robust public agenda for reform. Citizens overwhelmingly demand better accountability, limited discretionary powers, and stronger Right to Information laws. This clarion call offers policymakers a clear path to foster greater trust in governance.
Moreover, 78% of citizens expressed a desire for anti-corruption institutions like the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to be more transparent and accountable. Rather than dismissing these bodies, many see reform as necessary for enhancing their effectiveness.
The health sector also stands out, with citizens advocating for stricter regulations governing pharmaceutical commissions and clearer guidelines for doctors’ private practices. This feedback provides much-needed insight into the healthcare reform landscape.
On the political front, over 80% of respondents want to see regulations on business funding for political parties, while 55% suggest removing political imagery from government advertising. This consensus reflects a wider public desire for cleaner politics and more equitable governance.
The survey also reveals a hopeful sentiment: 42% would be willing to report corruption if robust whistleblower protections were in place. This indicates a strong appetite for community involvement in combatting corruption, lending credence to the idea that reform is a shared responsibility.
Overall, the NCPS 2025 serves as both a barometer of public sentiment and a comprehensive guide for what citizens expect from their government in terms of transparency and accountability. As we navigate the complexities of governance, it’s crucial for all players—be it citizens, institutions, or policymakers—to engage in meaningful discussions toward a more trustworthy and accountable system.
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