Public trust in institutions underpins effective governance, economic stability, and social cohesion. Yet across Canada and other western democracies, confidence in public institutions is declining—reshaped by political polarization, institutional complexity, technological disruption, and rising public expectations. In British Columbia, these global trends intersect with unique political, cultural, and economic dynamics, raising urgent questions about how trust is built, lost, and rebuilt.
The Trust Imperative brings together leading voices from academia, public policy, and public service to examine the state of institutional trust in BC. Panelists will explore the forces driving declining trust, how BC’s experience compares to other jurisdictions, and the implications for public institutions navigating rapid change. The discussion will also consider how governments and public organizations can respond—through policy design, transparency, leadership, and engagement—to sustain legitimacy and public confidence in an increasingly complex environment.
This timely conversation is designed for public servants, policy professionals, students, and engaged citizens interested in the future of democratic institutions and public trust in British Columbia.
Panelists
Evert Lindquist – Professor, School of Public Administration, University of Victoria (Moderator)
Carole James – Former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance
Tamara Krawchenko – Associate Professor, School of Public Administration, University of Victoria
George Abbott – BC Treaty Commissioner; Adjunct Professor, University of Victoria
📅 Wednesday, January 14, 2026
🕖 7:00–9:00 PM
📍 University of Victoria – Snjeq̓ə Pəɫən̓ (Sngequ House), Room 131
