Effective Transparency and Institutional Trust in Honduran Municipal Governments

Abstract

This article investigates trust in Honduran Municipal Governments and shows that transparency and municipal services quality impact on trust. We posit the Theory of Effective Transparency: relevant information should be reported; transparency should be based on unbiased information; and municipal data should be comparable with other municipal governments. Municipalities where one political party has an overall majority are trusted more, and audited financial statements generate a positive impact on trust. Engagement and participation also affect trust. As a practical implication, municipal governments should increase trust by involving citizens in municipal issues. Finally, quality of democracy is connected with greater trust.