More transparency
http://www.incyprus.com.cy/en-gb/Top-Stories-News/4342/36023/more-transparency
NICOSIA - Over 70 percent of Cypriots believe that corruption in the country has worsened in the last two years. And almost 80 percent feel it is a very serious problem, Transparency International Cyprus said in a press release.
“Cypriots report a rising trend towards corruption, with 71% saying that corruption has increased over the past couple of years. In addition, 79% believe that corruption is a serious problem in Cyprus,” it said.
“In addition, 68% of Cypriots believe personal contacts in the public sector play a major role in getting things done. And 90% believe that the country’s governance is influenced by the best interests of a small portion of the population,” it added.
The total number of respondents to the online barometer survey which was carried out in Cyprus between September 2012 and February 2013 was 570.
All ages were represented with 24% being under 19, 63% were between 20 and 64 and 13% over 65.
Out of the 22 western European countries taking part in the poll, Cyprus recorded top marks on the question about “best interests” influencing government decisions.
As for the government's efforts to fight corruption, 83% of Cypriots believe they are ineffective. This is the highest percentage among the 22 western European countries.
Most corrupt for Cypriots are the political parties (99%), followed by the House of Representatives (95%), police force (94%) and mass media (93%).
Asked whether there were willing to fight corruption, 74% said simple people can bring about the much-needed change. And 96% said they were willing to sign a petition calling on the government to strengthen efforts against corruption.
Moreover, as high as 84% of people are ready to circulate information on the problem of corruption through social media. And 81% would take part in a peaceful protest against corruption.
This not good for the country or the average Cypriot.