The discussion demonstrated the extent to which all political parties continue to seek ways to win back public trust, by using clear language, for example, or taking up unequivocal positions and encouraging increased participation. However, it was also clear that the largest potential for creating trust is often found where people come into contact with politics most directly, that is, in their local communities. In other words, when municipal communities are strengthened, there is an associated increase in trust in the political system. This trust is a key component in fostering social cohesion.
At one point, the study states the following (p. 19): “More and more people are becoming aware that democracy is not something to be taken for granted, that they have to stand up for it and adopt a firm position. People’s willingness to engage in volunteer work is high, and most people experience their local neighborhoods or towns to be community-minded and eager to cooperate. ... One doesn’t combat uncertainty by fostering a desire for a supposedly more stable past, but rather by inspiring hope in a better future. The individuals who lead this country and shape its policies are hereby called upon to lead by example.”