Democracy at the crossroads : the result of 2013 Maldives democracy survey

Abstract

Transparency Maldives conducted a nationwide random survey of the Maldivian public in August 2013. The survey used repeatedly tested survey questions and the results are reliable within a margin of error of +⁄− 3.0%. That project was grounded in the conviction that the successful performance of democratic institutions requires a complementary set of supporting democratic values. The results point to significant democratic deficits within Maldivian political culture. Some of the critical findings are as follows: A clear majority of Maldivians think that “politics” is the most important problem facing the country. Fully half of the public is dissatisfied with the way democracy operates in the Maldives. The deepest pockets of dissatisfaction are among the young and the well-educated. Moreover, for many, the notion of democracy carries negative connotations. Democracy entails widespread commitment to the principle of equality. But a substantial proportion of the public, about two–thirds, do not support the idea of gender equality. What is truly striking is that women are less supportive of gender equality than are men. A third troubling finding concerns the low levels of confidence that citizens have in their key representative institutions; institutions that are vital links between the citizens and the state. Out of 15 sets of institutions considered, Maldivians express the least confidence in parliament and political parties. 62% say that they have no confidence at all in parliament. 58% hold that view for political parties. The courts and the office of the President rate a little better.