Below is a test designed to help citizens self-assess the gap between themselves and their government, focusing on aspects like trust, participation, accountability, and responsiveness. The test consists of 10 questions, each scored from 1 to 10, where 1 indicates a significant gap (poor alignment) and 10 indicates minimal gap (strong alignment). The total score provides a scale to gauge the citizen-government gap.

Citizen-Government Gap Test

This test helps citizens evaluate the gap between themselves and their government based on trust, participation, accountability, and responsiveness. Answer each question honestly, assigning a score from 1 (strongly disagree, indicating a large gap) to 10 (strongly agree, indicating a small gap). Sum your scores to assess the overall gap on a scale of 10 to 100.

Instructions

• For each question, rate your agreement on a scale of 1 to 10.
• 1 = Strongly disagree (large gap); 10 = Strongly agree (small gap).
• Total your scores at the end.
• Interpret your total score:
• 10–30: Significant gap (high distrust, low alignment).
• 31–60: Moderate gap (mixed trust and engagement).
• 61–100: Minimal gap (strong trust and alignment).

Questions

1. Trust in Government Decisions: I believe the government makes decisions that reflect the best interests of citizens like me.

• Score: _ (1 = no trust, 10 = full trust)

1. Transparency: The government openly shares information about its actions, policies, and spending.

• Score: _ (1 = not transparent, 10 = highly transparent)

1. Accountability: Government officials are held accountable for corruption or misconduct through fair processes.

• Score: _ (1 = no accountability, 10 = strong accountability)

1. Representation: I feel my views and needs are represented by elected or appointed officials.

• Score: _ (1 = not represented, 10 = well represented)

1. Participation Opportunities: I have meaningful opportunities to participate in governance (e.g., voting, public consultations, petitions).

• Score: _ (1 = no opportunities, 10 = many opportunities)

1. Responsiveness: The government listens to and acts on citizens’ concerns and feedback.

• Score: _ (1 = not responsive, 10 = highly responsive)

1. Policy Alignment: Government policies align with the priorities and values of citizens like me.

• Score: _ (1 = no alignment, 10 = strong alignment)

1. Freedom of Expression: I feel safe and free to express my opinions about the government without fear of retaliation.

• Score: _ (1 = no freedom, 10 = full freedom)

1. Fairness in Services: The government provides services (e.g., healthcare, education, security) fairly to all citizens.

• Score: _ (1 = unfair, 10 = very fair)

1. Confidence in Institutions: I have confidence in key government institutions (e.g., judiciary, parliament, local government).
   • Score: _ (1 = no confidence, 10 = strong confidence)

Scoring

• Add your scores for all 10 questions: _ / 100
• Interpretation:
• 10–30: Significant gap. Citizens may feel disconnected, distrustful, or excluded from governance.
• 31–60: Moderate gap. There are areas of alignment, but improvements in trust or participation are needed.
• 61–100: Minimal gap. Strong trust and engagement exist between citizens and government.

Notes

• This test is for self-assessment and reflection.
• Results may vary based on personal experiences and national context.
• Use your score to identify areas where the gap is largest and consider actions (e.g., civic engagement, dialogue) to bridge it.