Issue brief

Democratic accountability

Public power should be transparent, answerable, and easier for citizens to challenge.

The problem

Many Canadians believe decisions are made above them, explained poorly, and protected from consequence. That weakens democratic trust even when elections continue to happen on schedule.

Why it matters

Democracy depends on more than voting. It depends on citizens believing public institutions can be questioned, corrected, and held to standards.

What practical reform could look like

  • Stronger transparency rules.
  • Clearer consequences for serious public failure.
  • Better access to public information.
  • Less reliance on slogans, message discipline, and institutional self-protection.

What citizens can do

Citizens can ask precise questions, follow local decisions, support serious journalism, and demand standards from every party and institution.