Liberia: Public Perception Shifts as More Liberians Back Anti-Corruption Efforts

MONROVIA – A new Afrobarometer survey shows that Liberians are increasingly optimistic about the government’s fight against corruption, with a sharp decline in the number of citizens who believe corruption is worsening.

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By: Patience M. Jones, contributing writer

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According to the survey, only 34% of respondents in 2024 believe corruption has increased over the past year—down dramatically from 76% in 2022. Meanwhile, 30% now say corruption has decreased, up from just 6% two years ago.

Public confidence in government efforts to combat corruption has also grown. More than half of Liberians (54%) rate the government’s performance in tackling corruption as “fairly well” or “very well,” compared to just 11% in the previous round of the survey.

However, skepticism remains high regarding the integrity of key public officials. The police are still viewed with deep distrust, as 64% of respondents say “most” or “all” officers are corrupt. Similar perceptions apply to members of Parliament (59%), senators (57%), and judges (52%).

The survey also reveals a gradual shift in citizens’ willingness to report corruption. Thirty-six percent now say they feel safe reporting corrupt activities without fear of retaliation—up nine percentage points from 2022. Still, 63% say they remain afraid to speak out.

Trust in state institutions has slightly improved. The Armed Forces of Liberia enjoy a 57% trust rating, while trust in the presidency rose to 46%, and the Ministry of Health earned 44%.

Afrobarometer conducted the survey between July 30 and August 21, 2024, through face-to-face interviews with 1,200 adult Liberians. The results carry a margin of error of +/- 3 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.