The role of experts in promoting trust and integrity - lessons from Covid-19

When: Thursday, March 31, 2022, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Where: Virtual event, online

Trust and integrity are strongly linked, and it is only when governmental tasks are performed with integrity that trust in institutions and governmental decisions can grow.

Our study of the role of experts in the decision-making process for the containment of Covid-19 shows that experts can help the government gain citizen's trust when it performs its tasks with integrity. Following the science – and not just receiving advice – is necessary for citizens to feel that the government acts with integrity and that they can trust it and comply with its decisions.

Drawing on research on the role of experts in developing responses to the coronavirus pandemic, including to vaccine hesitancy, our panel developed insights and recommendations on the role of expertise in fostering trust in public governance.

Our panel included:

• Professor Valsamis Mitsilegas, Professor of European Criminal Law and Global Security and Deputy Dean for Global Engagement (Europe), Queen Mary University of London

• Dr. Stella Ladi, Reader in Public Management, Queen Mary University of London

• Senator (Arch) Sylvia M. Kasanga MP, Kenyan Parliament

• Professor Koleka Mlisana, Executive Manager: Academic Affairs, Research & Quality Assurance (AARQA) / Co-Chair Covid-19 MAC South Africa National Health Laboratory Service

This event was part of the 2022 OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum (GACIF) which took place on 30 March - 1 April as a virtual event. It brought together stakeholders across policy communities to discuss creating a different framework to resolve longstanding challenges. As leaders transition from uncertainty to establishing a renewed sense of global social purpose, and if we are to make good on our commitments on the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, how can governments, business and civil society renew with integrity?

Watch the event