In a June poll called ‘Czech society 2003’, we paid close attention to the functioning of the public administration and self-administration bodies, and to the public opinion on how legislation and the conduct of politicians can be influenced. The first question generally addressed satisfaction with the functioning of democracy. The following question dealt with satisfaction with personnel employed in the state and public sectors.
37% of the people polled expressed satisfaction with the functioning of democracy, while 55%, over a half of them, were dissatisfied. As regards the work of employees in the state and public sectors, almost a third of respondents (31%) expressed their satisfaction while 54% were not satisfied. The poll also included an aggregate of statements on a variety of activities that may result in modifications of legislation. The task of the persons surveyed was to state whether the activities are effective or not. The respondents believe that the most effective activity to change legislation is work in a political party, followed by work in trade unions and demonstrations. On the other hand, church work and violent campaigns are considered the least effective methods. The last question focused on the extent to which selected factors influence the decision-making of politicians. The respondents are of the opinion that corruption and bribes are by far the most effective instruments to influence the conduct of politicians, while the least effectiveness is attributed to opinion polls and citizens.
