Trust in a changing world: Social cohesion and the social contract in uncertain times

Patricia Justino and Melissa Samarin

No wp-2025-34, WIDER Working Paper Series from World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER)

Abstract: This paper examines the erosion of trust as a global phenomenon, highlighting its implications for social cohesion and governance. Using data from the World Values Survey and regional barometers, the analysis focuses on trust's dual dimensions—interpersonal and institutional—within different socio-economic and geopolitical contexts. Results show a sharp decline in institutional trust worldwide, coupled with a mixed trajectory for interpersonal trust.

Keywords: Trust; Social cohesion; Governance; Social contract (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-soc
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