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Public institutions and service users
The Unknown Citizen Test
A procedure test for whether an ordinary person can receive fair treatment without influence or insider access.
Choose one service or decision
The unknown citizen arrives with only the lawful application, required documents, complaint, eligibility or right.
- No personal introduction.
- No influential relative or political sponsor.
- No private payment.
- No insider contact.
Test the procedure
Look beyond one helpful official and examine whether the process works consistently.
- Requirements and lawful fees are visible.
- A receipt or reference is issued.
- Timing, criteria and reasons are explained.
- A safe complaint or review route exists.
- The result does not change because a powerful person calls.
Redesign access
Identify where personal access enters the process and what design change would reduce its value.
- Publish the procedure.
- Record decisions and exceptions.
- Protect staff who follow the rule.
- Review repeated access complaints.