SFCG Liberia releases polling data on Liberian knowledge and perceptions

Search for Common Ground/Talking Drum Studio in Liberia recently conducted a groundbreaking series of polls questioning 550 people across the country on four different subjects:

• Public Perceptions of Corruption [pdf]
• Knowledge of the Poverty Reduction Strategy [pdf]
• Perceptions of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission [pdf]
• Knowledge and Perceptions on the Charles Taylor Trial in The Hague [pdf]

The data and results provide a unprecedented snapshot of current public opinion on the above issues and are being used by both SFCG and partner media outlets to inform coverage based on the needs of the Liberian public. The polling is part of SFCG’s overall work in Liberia and is geared toward improving understanding the types of information Liberians have access to. Ultimately, SFCG’s work is fostering links between the government, the public and radio broadcasters to improve the flow of information to the public about the key issues that affect their lives.

The results of these polls indicate many areas where government and media can improve their communications with the public. Highlights of the findings include

• 48% of respondents rated the Government of Liberia as good or very good at fighting corruption, while less that a third believe its anti-corruption performance is unsatisfactory.
• 70% of respondents had a negative perception of the TRC hearings. Including, 36% of respondents who felt that the TRC public hearings were “reopening old wounds.”
• 70% of Liberians actively follow the events of the Charles Taylor trial.

The polling was conducted in the six counties of Bong, Nimba, Grand Gedeh, Grand Bassa, Bomi, and Lofa, as well as the Monrovia neighborhoods of Westpoint, Duport Road, Sinkor and Gardnersville.

Click on the links above to read the key findings from these polls.

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