Trust in business strengthens, survey shows

Trust in business and government is strengthening in Europe and the United States, according to a survey of opinion leaders throughout the world.

More than half (51%) of those surveyed in the US now trust business leaders there to do "what is right", up from 48% in January last year.

European opinion leaders' confidence in business rose to 40%, from 35% in January 2003, according to the fifth annual Edelman Trust Barometer.

The survey also indicated that US companies are the least trusted in Europe (38%) and French-based companies are the least trusted in the US (34%).

Richard Edelman, the President and CEO of global public relations firm Edelman said today: "Despite the corporate and political scandals of the last few years, which have affected countries all around the world, including Ireland, the image of business is proving resilient with a stronger global economy and tougher government regulations being implemented."

The results of the survey, which were presented at the World Economic Forum in Davos, were launched today in Dublin by Richard Edelman, the President and CEO of global public relations firm Edelman.