Transparency and accountability are the main constituents of good governance, while good governance is a pre-condition to achieving human development which is the main concern or mission and the ultimate goal for all states’ programmes and activities.
Transparency and accountability are interrelated concepts and mutually reinforcing. Without transparency there couldn’t be any accountability. Unless there is accountability, transparency would be of no value. The existence of both conditions contributes to an effective, efficient and equitable management in public and private institutions.
In order to achieve a more efficient and more equitable form of management, most governments in developing countries are conducting sweeping reforms of their bureaucracies. Reform of state institutions so that they become more efficient, accountable and transparent is a cornerstone of good governance. Developing democratic and accountable institutions (including political parties, free trade unions and the media) are critical. Support to emerging private and civil society organisations, particularly to develop management capacities and accountability, are priorities.
