Exploring Determinants of Trust in Government: Empirical Evidences from Pakistan

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the different cultural and institutional factors that shape citizens level of trust in government. In order to achieve the goal, we employ feasible generalized least square (FGLS) techniques on a survey data of 1700 individuals obtained through multi stage stratified random sampling techniques from Malakand and Gilgit-Baltistan regions of Pakistan. Our findings reveal that certain cultural and institutional factors have a significant and positive impacts on developing trust in government. Among these satisfaction with public services, economic performance, and social capital are the key determinants. In contrast, unemployment, and corruption impede level of trust in government. Based on our findings, improvement in public services provision, economic efficiency and measures to eradicate corruption should improve trust in government.