Accountability and transparency of government and public officials is the sin quo non for the smooth functioning of democracy. For having practice of democracy, government as well as its officials has to be accountable to the people for their functions either directly or indirectly. Accountability can be both an end in itself -- representing democratic values -- and a means towards the development of more efficient and effective organizations. Politicians and public servants are given enormous power through the laws and regulations they implement, resources they control and the
organizations they manage. Accountability is a key way to ensure that this power is used appropriately and in accordance with the public interest. Accountability requires clarity about who is accountable to whom for what and that civil servants, organizations and politicians are held accountable for their decisions and performance. Accountability can be strengthened through formal reporting requirements and external scrutiny (such as an independent Audit Office, Ombudsmen, etc.).
Transparency in decision-making, implementation easy availability of relevant information is an essential element of democratic governance. Transparency refers to the availability of information to the general public and clarity about government rules, regulation and decisions. This can be done by enforcing the citizens rights to information. Transparency facilitates government’s accountability, participation and predictability of outcomes.
Transparency in decision-making, implementation easy availability of relevant information is an essential element of democratic governance. Transparency refers to the availability of information to the general public and clarity about government rules, regulation and decisions. This can be done by enforcing the citizens rights to information. Transparency facilitates government’s accountability, participation and predictability of outcomes.