A recent survey by L’Institut de la confiance dans les organisations (ICO) has revealed a crisis of trust in Quebec. The report highlights a significant decline in trust among Quebecers towards key institutions over the past decade. According to the survey, 68 per cent of respondents feel their trust in the health system has decreased, while 65 per cent report a decline in trust towards the provincial government.
The study also sheds light on the concerns of young people, with a growing sense of anxiety regarding housing (89 per cent), economic stability (84 per cent), climate issues (81 per cent), and the impact of AI on jobs (76 per cent).
Moreover, the survey points to a sharp decrease in trust in information sources, with 68 per cent expressing less confidence in what they read or watch compared to 2015. Social media experienced the largest decline in trust (down 67 per cent), while public television remains the most trusted source (50 per cent).
AI emerges as a major concern, with 82 per cent of respondents viewing it as a threat to privacy, and 68 per cent calling for Quebec-specific regulations to address these issues.
The survey also highlights a rise in polarization, with more than half of respondents noting a decline in tolerance and civility. On a positive note, environmental awareness has improved for 32 per cent of Quebecers.
ICO Director Donald Riendeau emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Trust is the glue that holds society together. When it erodes, the entire social fabric is threatened. It is imperative that all stakeholders recognize the urgency of taking action.”
The survey, conducted by CIBLE Recherche from September 24 to 26, 2025, involved 500 adults and has a margin of error of ±4.4 per cent.
