Low public trust puts policy-making at risk in Chile

Significance This was once regarded as higher than in most other Latin American countries but appears to have dropped to around or below the regional average. Weak trust in government institutions risks a vicious circle that hampers agreement on solutions to problems, which, in turn, further erodes trust and adherence to public policies. Impacts Mayors, whose work is more visible and easily scrutinised, will likely continue rising as some of the country’s most popular politicians. An effective response to increased organised crime will be hampered by low trust in the judicial system. Weak trust and its possible reflection in anti-incumbent voting suggests that the right-wing opposition may win the next general elections.