Confidence in Leaders

In 2021, almost a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, the Confederation of Tomorrow Survey of Canadians addressed the issue of public confidence in scientists, government medical advice and political leaders. At that time, the survey found that large majorities of Canadians had confidence in scientists, and trusted the medical and health advice given by the Government of Canada – although far fewer had confidence in governments in general. Two years later, the survey revisits this issue, with a focus on longer-term trends in the evolution of how Canadians see leaders from different sectors, including not only scientists and politicians, but also business leaders, leaders of environmental groups, and leaders of Indigenous organizations.

Are Canadians losing confidence in political leaders, in experts or in the media? Answers to this question vary according to the type of leader in question, and the period of time under consideration. Most Canadians continue to express confidence in scientists and medical experts. Roughly one in two Canadians also express confidence in leaders of environmental groups, leaders of Indigenous organizations and journalists. Notably, Canadians are more likely to have confidence in Indigenous leaders than they are in political leaders in general. Canadians are less likely to have confidence in business leaders, governments and political leaders. And in these cases, confidence has declined in recent years. Confidence in political leaders and in governments, however, remains higher today than it was 30 years ago. Only in the case of business leaders is confidence lower today than at any previous time over the past four decades.

The surveys give voice to Canadians about the major issues shaping the future of the federation and their political communities. The 2023 study consists of a survey of 5,300 adults, conducted online in the provinces between January 26 and February 9; and by telephone in the territories between January 24 and February 26.