Governments can strengthen public trust by ensuring meaningful public engagement in decision-making, using tools such as spending reviews and digital technologies to increase efficiency and enhancing access to justice and public services, according to a new OECD report. Government at a Glance 2025 highlights the mounting fiscal pressures across OECD countries, with public debt reaching 112% of GDP in 2024 – up from 73% in 2007.

The report shows how these fiscal pressures come as action is needed to respond to demographic, green and digital transitions, and low levels of public trust, with fewer than four in ten people (39%) across OECD countries reporting trust in their national government, and only 37% believing their government effectively balances the interests of current and future generations.