Introduction to political accountability
|
|
- Dominick Tate
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Introduction to political accountability Introduction Hello. Welcome to the first topic of the Learning Alliance on horizontal accountability. This Learning Alliance is part of the ELLA Programme and will be led by OSSREA and CIPPEC. In this topic, the concept of accountability will be introduced. We will then go over the dimensions of accountability: vertical and horizontal accountability. Next, we will focus on the two connotations of horizontal accountability, the distinction between answerability and enforceability. A brief account of the main accountability mechanisms in the world will be given. To foster the discussion, we will post some trigger questions. We encourage you to contribute! Origins of the concept According to authors such as Ugalde (2002), accountability first became an issue with the appearance of representative democracy, in which the people delegate power to their representatives. With the appearance of representative democracy, accountability mechanisms as we know them today began to take shape. One of its first manifestations is in system of checks and balances included in the Constitution of the United States. In that context took place one of the earliest debates concerning accountability between the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists. As Borowiak (2007) states, The Federalist vision emphasized the importance of concentrating governmental power and of keeping citizens at some distance from government both for the sake of well-managed government and so that accountability mechanisms might be effective. In contrast, the other, Anti-Federalist, vision highlighted the dangers of concentrated power and pointed to how republican accountability depends upon the active and meaningful participation of citizens, a type of participation that would be undermined if government were to grow distant. Borowiak (2007, 999). Ugalde (2002) states that previous political systems such as the Greek direct democracy lacked this type of mechanisms of accountability. However, following Elster (1999), the author states that Athenian democracy contained embryonic accountability components aimed to controlling the exercise of power. The Athenian political system featured, for example, a mechanism to exercise a vote of confidence, known as ostracism (which was also the procedure to choose between two policies in the Assembly) and a mechanism to revise the management of public funds by public officials at the end of their terms (euthinay). Eisangelia and aphofasis were designed to sanction political crimes. Accountability today Democracy has become the only game in town in Latin America. Nevertheless, several weaknesses remain that affect the quality of institutions. This is part of what is called a qualitative democracy (O Donnell et al, 1986) or the effective functioning of the democratic system and its coexistence with a wider democratization in the economic, social and cultural
2 dimensions. As stated by Mainwaring & Welna, "one of the important emerging challenges for improving the quality of democracy revolves around how to build more effective accountability mechanisms" (Mainwaring & Welna 2003, 4). According to Mainwaring (2003), a tension may arise between building effective mechanisms of accountability and government effectiveness. While the author states that oversight mechanisms may cause a stalemate immobilizing governments that are in consequence deemed ineffective, he also highlights that powerful mechanisms of accountability make it easier to block governments from implementing disastrous policies (Mainwaring 2003, 5). But, what are we talking about when we talk about accountability? To make matters simpler, we are only going to deal with political accountability. Mainwaring defines political accountability as a formalized relationship of oversight and/or sanctions of public officials by other actors (Mainwaring 2003, 7). This implies, on the one hand an obligation of certain public officials to answer as well as the right of other actors to impose sanctions on said public officials (Mainwaring 2003). Following O Donnell (1999), accountability has two dimensions: vertical and horizontal. Vertical accountability is linked to the control, support and censorship carried out by the electorate through the popular vote. It is also related to certain actions that civil society can perform to limit the actions of elected officials. In this way, O Donnell includes new agents of accountability to Mainwaring s (2003) definition. In line with O Donnell, Smulovitz and Peruzzotti (2000, 152) state control can be exercised by societal accountability: "(...) by exposing and denouncing wrongdoing ( ). Second, societal mechanisms control because they can activate the operation of horizontal mechanisms. Social mobilization around particular demands, media coverage and investigations, and the initiation of proceedings in oversight or judicial agencies put corrupt politicians at risk of losing their reputations or even of being taken into court (...)". Horizontal accountability, as defined by O'Donnell (1999, 38) implies: "The existence of state agencies that are legally enabled and empowered, and factually willing and able, to take action that span from routine oversight to criminal sanctions or impeachment in relation to actions or omissions by other agents or agencies of the state that may be qualified as unlawful." These institutions prevent, cancel, repair or punish actions by other government institutions. O Donnell (2003) divides these institutions into those of balance accountability, if it involves one of the three branches of the State, or mandated, such as National Audit Offices, comptrollers, ombudsmen, among others. During this Learning Alliance, we will deal exclusively with the issue of horizontal accountability. As stated by Schedler (1999), horizontal accountability entails two main connotations: answerability, understood as the obligation of public officials to report on what they are doing; and enforceability, or the ability of controlling institutions to impose sanctions on those who have defaulted on their obligations. While it is widely recognized that the performance of horizontal accountability is weak in many democracies in Latin America and Africa, there is a debate about what lies behind this situation. Understanding the determinants of low performance is key to designing stronger accountability mechanisms.
3 Before delving into the analysis of the Kenyan and Argentinean cases in the following topics, it is worth giving some context regarding the state of accountability mechanisms in the world. To this end, we will devote some time to describing the mechanisms in place in Brazil, Chile, Mexico, USA, UK and South Africa. In United Kingdom the bipartisan parliamentary system clearly defines the roles of government and opposition in the House of Commons. The first accountability activities are conducted in the plenary through different types of motions. There are predetermined days where the opposition sets the agenda and puts to the vote a series of motions that are often critical to the measures taken by the government. Also, for three days a year the plenary focuses on the control of public spending (Estimate Days). In addition, similar to what happens in some American presidential republics, once a year the King or Queen presents the government plan in the "Speech from the Throne", which is prepared by the cabinet. The main difference with what happens in American countries is that in the UK the government plan is specifically discussed by both Chambers for a week approximately. Question Time is a period within the week where the cabinet must answer questions from Parliament. Each minister should attend the debates at least once a month. But the most important players are the Departmental Parliamentary Committees that able to request information from large sectors of government and civil society and act as a real comptroller. This is one of the instruments preferred by lobbyists when questioning government actions, and is closely followed by the mass media and the public opinion (Sánchez de Dios, 2011). In addition, the Freedom of Information Act of 2000 allows any citizen who is interested in budgets or annual reports access to it, with few exceptions on national security issues. The authorities responsible for delivering information have a limit of 20 working days to deliver said information (AGI data, 2010). In the United States, the General Accountability Office (GAO) was created in It is an independent, nonpartisan agency that assists the Congress and investigates the expenditure of public funds by the federal government spends. Its director, US Comptroller General is elected for a term of 15 years. GAO works at the request of committees or subcommittees of Congress. It also provides recommendations to Congress and to agencies within the executive branch to make government more efficient, effective, ethical, and equitable. Also, the President gives the State of the Nation address every January, where he defends the administration and sets future lines of work (U.S. GAO, last access on May 17th 2016). As in the United Kingdom, the President makes a speech called the State of the Union, where the political orientation, policy priorities and goals achieved are stated. In Latin America, Brazil incorporated performance management tools in monitoring and performance evaluation in the annual budget process. The Constitution gives the Court of Auditors the prerogatives of the Union to establish fines and penalties and time limits to adhere to the obligations of the powers. The legislature also has four initiatives to control the executive: the request for information, the call for ministers, proposals for Supervision and Control and the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry, the last two being more complex mechanisms; the first works together with the Court of Accounts of the Union to exercise fiscal, financial and accounting control of public bodies, while the second investigates specific facts, has extensive legal powers and its recommendations can translate into political punishment as removing charge the crime of responsibility. Legislators are entitled to make requests for information to the executive. In Brazil this competition is contemplated in the Constitution and the days in the executive to respond (30). You can also petition the President when his/her accounts were not sent by the executive. As for the answerability component of horizontal accountability, the Constitution mandates that the president must deliver its plan of government to Congress annually, on the legislative opening session.
4 In Chile, the control function is exercised by the Comptroller General of the Republic, a superior control body. It exercises oversight of the legality of the acts of the State Administration and acts independently of both the executive and legislative branches. The work of the Comptroller is eminently audit; legal, accounting and financial. The Comptroller is appointed by the president with the approval of the Senate and cannot be reelected for a next period. Constitutionally, the obligations include defining the legality or otherwise of Executive decrees and resolutions. He is responsible for the audit of expenses decrees that exceed the limit specified in the Constitution. The Constitution allows legislators requests information from the executive, who is bounded to respond within 30 days. The President addresses the Congress every May 21st to report on the state of the country s administrative and political state. In Mexico, a pioneer in evaluation issues, the creation in 2005 of the National Council for the Assessment of Social Policy (CONEVAL) consolidated an institutional and autonomous perspective, identified with strong capabilities of answerability. On the side of the legislative, the Chamber of Deputies is responsible for reviewing the budget. Times to do it are constitutionally specified, which is not usual in other Latin American countries. The Superior Audit Office examines discrepancies between income and expenses of public finances and determines responsibilities; its powers are established in the Constitution. On the other hand, institutions subject to monitoring are required to specify improvements made, the actions undertaken and to justify any improprieties identified in the audit. As with Brazil and Chile, legislators are entitled by the Constitution to make requests for information. As is the case in Chile, the Constitution sets a deadline (15 days) for the executive to respond to the requests for information. As for the answerability component of horizontal accountability, although there is no Constitutional mechanism to force the President to report before Congress on the State of the Nation, Secretaries must report to Congress on the state of their respective cabinets. On the other hand, by ¼ of the chamber of deputies and ½ of senators a commission investigating the functioning of decentralized agencies and state-owned companies can be created. In South Africa, that has a parliamentary system of government, the South African Constitution provides that the National Assembly establish the mechanisms to ensure that the executive bodies are held accountable. The President and Ministers are responsible for the exercise of their powers and accountable to Parliament. On the other hand, all public institutions that deal with the strengthening of constitutional democracy are accountable to the National Assembly and required to submit a report at least once a year. These institutions include: the Public Protector, the South African Human Rights Commission, the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, the Commission for Gender Equality, the Auditor-General and the Electoral Commission. The main control function is carried out by the Auditor-General, who audits and reports on the national, provincial and municipal accounts. In Ghana, accountability is one of the five principles of its Constitution. The Constitution gives a special role to the mass media regarding this issue: they are responsible for upholding the accountability of the government to the people. Parliamentarian committees have the capability to investigate the executive through the budget and request information. These activities are usually absorbed by the Finance Committee and are most effective regarding State enterprises. In addition, a Public Accounts Committee is in charge of revising public expenditure but its recommendations are non-binding. An Auditor General is constitutionally mandated to exert oversight over a range of institutions: public accounts of Ghana and of all public offices, including the courts, the central and local government administrations, of the Universities and public institutions of like nature, of any public corporation or other body or organization established by an Act of Parliament.
5 Finally, the Ugandan Constitution stablishes accountability as the 26th objective; all public officers and persons placed in positions of leadership and responsibility shall be held in trust for the people. Ministers are accountable to the President individually for their ministries and collectively for the Cabinet. Regarding horizontal accountability, as article 164 states, The Permanent Secretary or the accounting officer of a Ministry or department shall be accountable to Parliament for the funds in that Ministry or department. An auditor general elected by the President and approved by the Parliament is in charge of auditing and reporting the public accounts of Uganda. An annual report shall be considered by the Parliament and taken action. The Parliament also monitors all expenditure of public funds. This activity is developed by the Public Accounts Committee. Moreover, particular committees or Commissions of Inquiry may be created to request information or explanations from public officers. The Constitution states that the Parliament shall make laws prescribing measures for local governments promoting accountability. The Ugandan parliament has capacity for budget review backed by the Constitution by its Article 155 and is able to participate during the budget negotiation, which includes citizen participation as well. Nonetheless, its capability to amend or modify the budget is restricted to informal negotiations. Regarding further oversight, investigative powers over budgetary issues and spending exist but are not regularly used, except of the spending by State enterprises. Powers to request and receive response do exist buy there are no mechanisms for making follow-ups and the recommendations are not binding resolutions (API, 2011). Despite the depth of the conceptual and factual development of horizontal accountability, it is necessary to highlight that the incumbent Ugandan president holds office since This shows that strong accountability mechanisms are a necessary but not sufficient condition for the quality of democracy.
6 References Aquilino, N. Pomares, J. et al (2016) The deficits in horizontal accountability in Argentina: a tale of two worlds. In press. Borowiak, C. (2007). Accountability debates: the Federalists, the Anti-Federalists and democratic deficits. The Journal of Politics, 69 (4), pp Bovens, M. (2010). Two Concepts of Accountability: Accountability as a Virtue and as a Mechanism. West European Politics, 33(5), Mainwaring, S., & Shugart, M. S. (1997). Presidentialism and democracy in Latin America. Cambridge University Press. Mainwaring, S., & Welna, C. (2003). Democratic Accountability in Latin America. Oxford University Press, USA. Mihyo, P. et. Al (2016). Horizontal Accountability of the Executive to the Legislature in Africa: A Case Study of Kenya O Donnell, G. et al (1986) (Editors) Transitions from authoritarian rules. Comparative perspective. Johns Hopkins University Press O Donnell, G. (2003). Horizontal accountability: the legal institutionalization of mistrust. Democratic Accountability in Latin America, 22, Oszlak, O. (2003). Responsabilización o respondibilidad?: el sujeto y el objeto de un Estado responsable. In ponencia presentada al VIII Congreso Internacional del CLAD sobre Reforma del Estado y de la Administración Pública. CLAD: Panamá. Oszlak, O. (2006). From Smaller to Better Government: The Challenge of the Second and Third Generations of State Reform. International Journal of Organization Theory and Behavior, 9(3), 408. Parliamentary Centre (2011), African Parliamentary Index (API): A Report for Seven African Countries, Parliamentary Centre (Africa Programme). Peruzzotti, E., & Smulovitz, C. (2000). Societal Accountability in Latin America. Journal of democracy, 11(4), Sánchez de Dios, M. (2011). The democratic accountability in Europe: the work of the parliaments. X Congress of the Spanish Political Science Association. Schedler, A. (1999). Conceptualizing accountability. The Self-Restraining State: Power and Accountability in New Democracies,
7 Ugalde (2002). Rendición de cuentas y democracia. El Caso de México. Instituto Federal Electoral, México. Constitutions Constitutions of Brazil, Chile, Ghana, Mexico, South Africa and Uganda. Webpages Parliament UK. Retrieved from <Last check on May 18th > World Bank. Actionable Government Indicators, Public Accountability Mechanisms, CE/0,,contentMDK: ~pagePK:148956~piPK:216618~theSitePK:286305,00.html. <Last check on May 18th> United States Government Accountability Office. <Last check on May 18th>
Chapter Six. Government and Policymaking
Chapter Six Government and Policymaking Comparative Politics Today, 9/e Almond, Powell, Dalton & Strøm Pearson Education, Inc. publishing as Longman 2008 Government and Policymaking Government and Policymaking
More informationIntroduction to Comparative Government and Politics. Classwork Study Questions II
Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics Classwork Study Questions II 1.Differentiate between levels of government. Supranational: a type of multinational political union where negotiated power
More informationPUBLIC SERVICE ETHICS IN AFRICA: REPORT OF THE DISSEMINATION WORKSHOP ON KENYA
PUBLIC SERVICE ETHICS IN AFRICA: REPORT OF THE DISSEMINATION WORKSHOP ON KENYA HELD ON 29 TH AUGUST 2002 NAIROBI, KENYA BY DR. PETER WANYANDE AND DR. C. ODHIAMBO MBAI NATIONAL CONSULTANTS BACKGROUND The
More informationDiagnostic Report on Transparency, Citizen Participation and Accountability (TPA) in Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) of Latin America
Diagnostic Report on Transparency, Citizen Participation and Accountability (TPA) in Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) of Latin America TRANSPARENCY CITIZEN PARTICIPATION ACCOUNTABILITY The TPA Initiative
More informationREPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT
REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT DEFINITION people elect delegates to make laws and conduct government HOW PRACTICED People formed government to protect to their natural rights Government required the consent
More informationINTRODUCTION TO SYSTEMS OF GOVERNMENT Presidential and Semi- Presidential By: ATTY. LORENZO LARRY GADON
INTRODUCTION TO SYSTEMS OF GOVERNMENT Presidential and Semi- Presidential By: ATTY. LORENZO LARRY GADON WHAT DO WE WANT? CHANGE CHANGE IN GOVERNMENT SYSTEM CHANGE FOR BETTER FUTURE OF THE COUNTRY AND ITS
More informationMEASURING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEES 1
MEASURING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEES 1 ABSTRACT Benchmarks and methods of self-assessment can help build public confidence and strengthen the capacity of parliaments to manage increasing
More informationThe Roles and Responsibilities Of Members of Parliament (MPs)
The Roles and Responsibilities Of Members of Parliament (MPs) The role of Parliament in Sierra Leone s democracy The Parliament of Sierra Leone is the legislative branch of government. As is the case with
More informationWe the People The Citizen and the Constitution. and the Arizona Social Studies Standards Level III
We the People The Citizen and the Constitution STANDARD 2: CIVICS/GOVERNMENT and the Arizona Social Studies Standards Level III Students understand the ideals, rights, and responsibilities of citizenship,
More informationLAW ON THE ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
1 LAW ON THE ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA 1. BASIC PROVISIONS Article 1 (1) This law shall regulate certain aspects of the functioning of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia (hereafter:
More informationKAZAKHSTAN COMMENT OF THE WORKING GROUP ON THE REDISTRIBUTION OF POWERS ON THE DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN
Strasbourg, 24 February 2017 Opinion No. 882/2017 CDL-REF(2017)017 Engl. only EUROPEAN COMMISSION FOR DEMOCRACY THROUGH LAW (VENICE COMMISSION) KAZAKHSTAN COMMENT OF THE WORKING GROUP ON THE REDISTRIBUTION
More informationRESOLUTION. of the Conference of the Belarusian National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum
Adopted by the Conference of the Belarusian National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum 24 February 2018 RESOLUTION of the Conference of the Belarusian National Platform of the Eastern
More informationD CA F. What are parliamentary committees on defence and. What are parliamentary committees on defence and. security? security?
What are parliamentary committees on defence and What distinguishes the working environment of these committees from that of other committees? Which committees are involved in defence and What kinds of
More informationDRAFT CONSTITUTIONAL LAW ON AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF GEORGIA *
Strasbourg, 6 February 2004 Opinion no. 281/2004 Engl. only EUROPEAN COMMISSION FOR DEMOCRACY THROUGH LAW (VENICE COMMISSION) DRAFT CONSTITUTIONAL LAW ON AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF GEORGIA * * Text
More information132. What type of government exists in Brazil? A. communist B. monarchy C. presidential democracy D. parliamentary democracy
SS6CG2 The student will explain the structures of national governments in Latin America and the Caribbean. a. Compare the federal-republican systems of the Federative Republic of Brazil (Brazil) and the
More informationWith the support of the European Union
1 Oversight Role of Parliament A publication of The Institute for Social Accountability (TISA) In partnership with CEPAD and World Vision Kenya With the support of the European Union 3 Published by: The
More informationCALRE AWARD Stars of Europe
CALRE AWARD Stars of Europe Participation form Regional legislative assembly: ANDALUSIAN PARLIAMENT Country: SPAIN President: Mr. JUAN PABLO DURÁN SÁNCHEZ Contact person for the project: Name: SOL Surname:
More informationFINAL DECLARATION. Fifth Global Forum on Re-inventing Government: Innovation and Quality in the Government of the 21 st Century
FINAL DECLARATION Fifth Global Forum on Re-inventing Government: Innovation and Quality in the Government of the 21 st Century México City, 3-6 November 2003 México City Declaration We, the participants
More informationTRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE MONTENEGRIN GOVERNANCE SYSTEM Summary Report of an Assessment Podgorica, February 2009
TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE MONTENEGRIN GOVERNANCE SYSTEM Summary Report of an Assessment Podgorica, February 2009 With a focus on accountability and transparency, the National Democratic Institute
More informationSURVEY OF ANTI-CORRUPTION MEASURES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR IN OECD COUNTRIES: KOREA
SURVEY OF ANTI-CORRUPTION MEASURES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR IN OECD COUNTRIES: KOREA 1. What anti-corruption mechanisms exist for the public sector in your country? a) Legislation proscribing corrupt activities
More informationGRADE NINE CANADA S FEDERAL POLITICAL SYSTEM CANADA PASSPORT
GRADE NINE CANADA S FEDERAL POLITICAL SYSTEM CANADA PASSPORT CHAPTER ONE How effectively does Canada s federal political system govern canada for all canadians? LEGISLATIVE BRANCH The Queen Canada is a
More informationMOHANLAL SUKHADIA UNIVERSITY
MOHANLAL SUKHADIA UNIVERSITY Submitted to: Submitted By: Deepti Sharma Amulya Democracy is a form of govt in which eligible citizens participate equally- either directly or indirectly through representatives.
More informationAct on the Government Offices of Iceland 1)
Official translation Act on the Government Offices of Iceland 1) Entered into force on 28 September 2011. Amended by Act no. 173/2011 (entered into force on 30 December 2011), Act no. 115/2012 (entered
More informationDRAFT OPINION ON LEGISLATIVE PROVISIONS CONCERNING EARLY ELECTIONS IN UKRAINE. on the basis of comments by
Strasbourg, 29 May 2007 Opinion no. 439 / 2007 CDL(2007)047* Engl. only EUROPEAN COMMISSION FOR DEMOCRACY THROUGH LAW (VENICE COMMISSION) DRAFT OPINION ON LEGISLATIVE PROVISIONS CONCERNING EARLY ELECTIONS
More informationConstitution Vocabulary Words. Thursday, September 5, 13
Constitution Vocabulary Words Government The institutions, people, and processes by which a nation-state or political unit is ruled and its public policy created and administered Nation-State A political
More informationSIGMA Support for Improvement in Governance and Management A joint initiative of the OECD and the European Union, principally financed by the EU
SIGMA Support for Improvement in Governance and Management A joint initiative of the OECD and the European Union, principally financed by the EU POLICY DEVELOPMENT, MONITORING AND EVALUATION: THE ROLE
More informationHenry6SS (H6SSGov) 1. An example of economic cooperation among European nations that occurred in the late 1900s was the
Name: Date: 1. An example of economic cooperation among European nations that occurred in the late 1900s was the A. creation of the United Nations. B. signing of the Treaty of Versailles. C. creation of
More informationInternational Consensus on Standards for Democratic Parliaments
International Consensus on Standards for Democratic Parliaments Workshop of the Committee on Democracy and Peace September 6, 2011 Andrew G. Mandelbaum Senior Program Officer, Governance National Democratic
More informationSS.7.C.2.1 Citizenship
SS.7.C.2.1 Citizenship ****At the end of this lesson, I will be able to do the following: Define citizenship as stated in the 14 th Amendment Describe the process of becoming a naturalized citizen Evaluate
More informationCan you hear me? 10/19/15& Today s Topic: Latin America s Government. Let s go over the class rules:
Can you hear me? Georgia Cyber Academy s mission is to provide an exemplary individualized and engaging educational experience for all students. Classes begin at: 1st Block 8:35am 2 nd Block 10:05am Learning
More informationDemonstrate skills that enable people to monitor and influence state, local and national affairs.
1. Civic Skills 1. Democratic government depends on informed and engaged citizens who exhibit civic skills and values, practice civic discourse, vote and participate in elections, apply inquiry and analysis
More information11/26/2009. Parliament: The legislative (law-making) part of the government, made up of: Monarch Senate House of Commons
The Parliament of Canada Federal (Ottawa) When Canada became a nation, the British North America (BNA) Act guaranteed that Canada would be under a parliamentary democracy. The ruling party in the House
More informationCHAPTER 9 STATE INSTITUTIONS SUPPORTING CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY
CHAPTER 9 STATE INSTITUTIONS SUPPORTING CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY 181. Establishment and governing principles (1) The following state institutions strengthen constitutional democracy in the Republic: (a)
More informationPromoting Local Democracy and Good Governance: Anti-Corruption Measures and Accountability Structures at Local Level
Promoting Local Democracy and Good Governance: Anti-Corruption Measures and Accountability Structures at Local Level Regional and Global Experience: Some Notes and Resources Khon Kaen Thailand Andrew Ellis
More informationONLINE PUBLIC CONSULTATION
DRAFT RECOMMENDATION OF THE COUNCIL ON PUBLIC INTEGRITY ONLINE PUBLIC CONSULTATION DEADLINE FOR COMMENT 22 MARCH 2016 The draft Recommendation of the Council on Public Integrity has been elaborated by
More informationI CONCEPTUALIZACION A SURRENDER OF ACCOUNTS.
I CONCEPTUALIZACION A SURRENDER OF ACCOUNTS. The concept of surrender of accounts has great importance, in the scope in which it is executed, or public or another scene, for being an obligation that has
More informationPublic Internal Control Systems in the European Union
Public Internal Control Systems in the European Union The three lines of defense in a Public Sector environment Discussion Paper No. 9 Ref. 2017-2 The information and views set out in this paper are those
More informationChapter 6: Government and Policy Making
Chapter 6: Government and Policy Making Introduction Policymaking The pivotal stage in the political process, the point at which bills become law, or edicts are issued by the rulers, whoever they are Decision
More informationOpen Government and Democracy Policy
Open Government and Democracy Policy Spokesperson: James Shaw MP Updated: 16-Jan-2015 Vision The Green Party envisions an Aotearoa New Zealand in which: The government operates in a relationship with tangata
More informationINTERNATIONAL COUNCIL SUPPORTING FAIR TRIAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS
INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL SUPPORTING FAIR TRIAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS Registration No. 2795 About INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL SUPPORTING FAIR TRIAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS (ICSFT)- Geneva Legal Shape and Location The International
More informationThe Executive. Key Terms
5 The Executive Key Terms ABC (p. 196) An agency, board or commission responsible for delivering a program or service, or producing goods, at arm s length from government. Backbencher (p. 184) A rank-and-file
More informationBOTSWANA ACCOUNTANCY OVERSIGHT AUTHORITY (BAOA)
BOTSWANA ACCOUNTANCY OVERSIGHT AUTHORITY (BAOA) BOARD CHARTER BOTSWANA ACCOUNTANCY OVERSIGHT AUTHORITY BOARD CHARTER 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTENTS PAGE 1. OVERVIEW 3 2. PURPOSE 3 3. COMPOSITION 3 4. INDUCTION
More informationCIVILIAN SECRETARIAT FOR POLICE SERVICE BILL
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA CIVILIAN SECRETARIAT FOR POLICE SERVICE BILL (As amended by the Select Committee on Security and Constitutional Development (National Council of Provinces)) (The English text is
More informationPublic participation for sustainable development in local cities
Public participation for sustainable development in local cities 1.1 Introduction Moseti Yvonne Public participation is the process of seeking and facilitating the involvement of those potentially affected
More informationBrain Wrinkles. Africa s. Republic of Kenya & Republic of South Africa
Africa s Republic of Kenya & Republic of South Africa Government Systems Who has the power? Unitary--power is held by one central authority Confederation--association of independent states that agree to
More informationAction Plan for Strengthening Legislative and Oversight Role. of the Parliament of Montenegro in 2015
PARLIAMENT OF MONTENEGRO Action Plan for Strengthening Legislative and Oversight Role of the Parliament of Montenegro in 2015 February 2015 Introduction The adoption of the Action Plan for Strengthening
More informationDemocratic Deficit and Deparlamentarisation? Europeanisation/German Politics
Democratic Deficit and Deparlamentarisation? Europeanisation/German Politics Outline Revision Assessment: passive europeanisation? Possible explanations Class questions Europeanisation/German Politics
More informationImproving Local Governance in Jamaica
Improving Local Governance in Jamaica Professor Rosalea Hamilton Director, National Integrity Action Strengthening Accountability through Fiscal Transparency Practices & 2nd Co-creation Meeting: Citizen
More informationStaffing the departments for Voters List and IT in the SEC in order to increase the efficiency of the Commission
04.07.2017 Government of the Republic of Macedonia Plan 3-6-9 The course of the reforms proposed by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia, presented in the "Plan 3-6-9", are based on the Government
More informationField 050: Social Studies Government and Citizenship Assessment Blueprint
Field 050: Social Studies Government and Citizenship Assessment Blueprint Domain I Political Science Concepts and Systems 0001 Political Science Concepts and Skills (Standard 9) 0002 Purposes, Forms, and
More informationLAO PEOPLE S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC PEACE INDEPENDENCE DEMOCRACY UNITY PROSPERITY
LAO PEOPLE S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC PEACE INDEPENDENCE DEMOCRACY UNITY PROSPERITY National Assembly No. 34/PO DECREE of the PRESIDENT of the LAO PEOPLE S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC On the Promulgation of the Amended
More informationLatin American Governments. Brazil, Mexico, & Cuba
Latin American Governments Brazil, Mexico, & Cuba Let s Review Government Systems Who has the power? Unitary--power is held by one central authority Confederation--association of independent states that
More informationGovernment Act (175/2003; amendments up to 970/2007 included)) Chapter 1 Government organisation and mandates
NB: Unofficial translation Prime Minister s Office, Finland Government Act (175/2003; amendments up to 970/2007 included)) Chapter 1 Government organisation and mandates Section 1 Government organisation
More informationCase Study Improving Public Sector Governance in the Cook Islands
Case Study Improving Public Sector Governance in the Cook Islands Introduction There is a growing concern among the public at large over the abuse, waste and mismanagement of public resources and funds
More informationZoltán Szente. National University of Public Service, Budapest, Hungary. Introduction
1 Zoltán Szente National University of Public Service, Budapest, Hungary MARGINALISING THE PARLIAMENT (ANTI-)PARLIAMENTARY REFORMS IN HUNGARY AFTER 2010 Introduction Nowadays, it is almost a commonplace
More informationParliamentary Control Functions (Kosovo case)
EUROPEAN ACADEMIC RESEARCH Vol. III, Issue 2/ May 2015 ISSN 2286-4822 www.euacademic.org Impact Factor: 3.4546 (UIF) DRJI Value: 5.9 (B+) Parliamentary Control Functions (Kosovo case) Msc. VAIT QERIMI,
More informationThe Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms
6 The Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms Chapter Outline Constitutions and Constitutionality o Constitutional Functions Representation Power Rights Community, Identity, and Citizenship
More informationGN 490 of 26 April 2007: Guidelines on allocation of additional powers and functions to municipalities
GN 490 of 26 April 2007: Guidelines on allocation of additional powers and functions to municipalities MINISTRY FOR PROVINCIAL AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT I, Fholisani Sydney Mufamadi, Minister for Provincial
More informationAct A law made by a legislative body and given assent by the head of state.
Glossary Act A law made by a legislative body and given assent by the head of state. Aso Rock (Nigeria) Declaration of 2003 A meeting of the high-powered experts on development and democracy that stressed
More informationON PREVENTION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST IN DISCHARGE OF PUBLIC FUNCTIONS LAW ON PREVENTION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST IN DISCHARGE OF PUBLIC FUNCTIONS
Republika e Kosovës Republika Kosovo - Republic of Kosovo Kuvendi - Skupština - Assembly Law No. 04/L-051 ON PREVENTION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST IN DISCHARGE OF PUBLIC FUNCTIONS Assembly of Republic of
More informationTABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER ONE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE STATE. Giuseppe Franco Ferrari
PREFACE p.ixiii CHAPTER ONE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE STATE Giuseppe Franco Ferrari 1. Nature and Categories of Legal Systems p. 01 2. Legal and Non-legal norms: Structure and Relationship» 05 3. The State:
More informationACP-EU JOINT PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY
ACP-EU JOINT PARLIAMTARY ASSEMBLY ACP-EU/102.400/18/fin. RESOLUTION 1 on ACP-EU relations post-cotonou: a strong parliamentary dimension The ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, meeting in Brussels (Belgium)
More informationOn the basis of Article 88, item 2 of the Constitution of the Republic of Montenegro, I am passing the D E C R E E
On the basis of Article 88, item 2 of the Constitution of the Republic of Montenegro, I am passing the D E C R E E ON THE PROCLAMATION OF THE LAW ON STATE ADMINISTRATION The Law on State administration,
More informationCITIZENS ENGAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT: A PERSPECTIVE FROM THE UNITED NATIONS
CITIZENS ENGAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT: A PERSPECTIVE FROM THE UNITED NATIONS by Roberto Villarreal Chief, Development Management Branch Division for Public Administration and Development Management
More information10/6/2015. Federal (Ottawa)
Federal (Ottawa) 1 2 3 The Parliament of Canada 4 When Canada became a nation, the British North America (BNA) Act guaranteed that Canada would be under a parliamentary democracy. The ruling party in the
More informationThe Relationship Between Parliament and the Agents of Parliament Seminar Offered by the Canadian Study of Parliament Group
Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner Commissariat aux conflits d intérêts et à l éthique PRESENTATIONS & SPEECHES CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY The Relationship Between Parliament and the
More informationInformation Brief. Parliamentary Autonomy. p f
Information Brief Parliamentary Autonomy 1A Wrightson Road Tower D, Port of Spain p. 624.7275 f. 625.4672 coth@ttparliament.org www.ttparliament.org INFORMATION BRIEF - MAY 2017 1 Background 1. In general,
More informationChapter 1: Foundations of Government
Chapter 1: Foundations of Government Section 1: The Purposes of Government Section 2: Forms of Government Section 3: Democracy in the United States Section 1 at a Glance The Purposes of Government Government
More informationKINGDOM OF CAMBODIA NATION KING RELIGION
KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA NATION KING RELIGION ROYAL GOVERNMENT OF CAMBODIA STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK FOR DECENTRALIZATION AND DE-CONCENTRATION REFORMS 17 June 2005 Unofficial translation from the original text in
More informationHelp Sheet 1: Legislative Processes in the United Kingdom
1 Help Sheet 1: Legislative Processes in the United Kingdom Introduction This Help Sheet is designed for readers who are not familiar with the system of legislation in the United Kingdom. It provides a
More informationPRACTICE AND PROCEDURE JUNE 2013
62 ND WESTMINSTER SEMINAR ON PARLIAMENTARY PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE 17 21 JUNE 2013 AIM 1. The aim of the seminar is to explore parliamentary practice and procedure within a Westminster-style framework in
More informationPARLIAMENTARY TRANSPARENCY PLEDGE
NOTE: The following draft document was presented for discussion at a conference of parliamentary monitoring organization leaders held in Washington, D.C., from April 30 to May 2, 2012. Substantial comments
More informationMODELS OF SPECILIZED ANTI-CORRUPTION BODIES AND PROSPECTS OF ITS FORMATION IN ARMENIA. Policy paper DECEMBER 1, 2013
MODELS OF SPECILIZED ANTI-CORRUPTION BODIES AND PROSPECTS OF ITS FORMATION IN ARMENIA Policy paper DECEMBER 1, 2013 AUTHOR: KHACHIK HARUTYUNYAN, ANTI-CORRUPTION EXPERT TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL ANTICORRUPTION
More informationDraft October 12, PARLIAMENTARY OVERSIGHT: A self-assessment toolkit
Draft October 12, 2018 PARLIAMENTARY OVERSIGHT: A self-assessment toolkit 2 Contents FOREWORD... 3 II. PREPARING FOR SELF-ASSESSMENT... 5 Initiating the self-assessment... 6 Expected outcomes of the assessment...
More informationRESTRUCTURING THE BOSTWANA NATIONAL AIDS COUNCIL
RESTRUCTURING THE BOSTWANA NATIONAL AIDS COUNCIL NAC 2012 1 1.0 Background The National AIDS Council was established in 1995 through Presidential Directive CAB28/95. Its main purpose was to function as
More informationGuidelines on the Conduct of Ministers, Ministers of State, Exempt Staff and Public Servants During an Election
Guidelines on the Conduct of Ministers, Ministers of State, Exempt Staff and Public Servants During an Election Privy Council Office August 2015 Table of Contents 1. Introduction: The Caretaker Convention
More informationA/HRC/25/NGO/176. General Assembly. United Nations
United Nations General Assembly Distr.: General 04 March 2014 A/HRC/25/NGO/176 English only Human Rights Council Twenty-fifth session Agenda item 5 Human rights bodies and mechanisms Joint written statement
More informationTHE HASHEMITE KINGDOM OF JORDAN THE OPEN GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP JORDAN: NATIONAL ACTION PLAN FIRST PROGRESS REPORT
THE HASHEMITE KINGDOM OF JORDAN THE OPEN GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP JORDAN: NATIONAL ACTION PLAN FIRST PROGRESS REPORT FEBRUARY 2013 Jordan Commitments under OGP Jordan is well positioned to be a model for
More informationStrengthening Government Policymaking in Myanmar
Strengthening Government Policymaking in Myanmar February 2016 This note asks how Myanmar s democratically elected government can improve policymaking processes. It summarizes internationally recognized
More informationChapter 22: Comparative Political Systems Section 4
Chapter 22: Comparative Political Systems Section 4 Objectives 1. Examine elements of the United Kingdom s parliamentary democracy. 2. Describe regional and local government in the United Kingdom. 3. Analyze
More informationSTRENGTHENING GOVERNMENT POLICYMAKING IN MYANMAR
STRENGTHENING GOVERNMENT POLICYMAKING IN MYANMAR February 2016 This note asks how Myanmar s democratically elected government can improve policymaking processes. It summarizes internationally recognized
More informationPlan The Government has established an efficient mechanism for implementation of the measures of the Plan 3-6-9:
Plan 3-6-9 + Introduction The package of measures of the Plan 3-6-9, envisaged for implementation in the first three months, was fulfilled to a large extent, primarily as a result of the strong political
More informationChapter 1: Principles of Government Section 1
Chapter 1: Principles of Government Section 1 Basic Types of Government In a dictatorship, all powers are held by one person or group. In a democracy, authority lies with the people. The U.S. government
More information- 2 - Report on the implementation by the Russian Federation of articles 5, 7, 8, 10, 12 and 13 of the United Nations Convention against Corruption
- 2 - Report on the implementation by the Russian Federation of articles 5, 7, 8, 10, 12 and 13 of the United Nations Convention against Corruption The Russian Federation signed the United Nations Convention
More informationDRAFT REPORT ACP-EU JOINT PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY ASSEMBLÉE PARLEMENTAIRE PARITAIRE ACP-UE on constitutional limits on presidential terms
ACP-EU JOINT PARLIAMTARY ASSEMBLY ASSEMBLÉE PARLEMTAIRE PARITAIRE ACP-UE Committee on Political Affairs 23.9.2016 DRAFT REPORT on constitutional limits on presidential terms Committee on Political Affairs
More informationbureaucracy cabinet civil service independent agencies
Purpose Departments, agencies, and bureaus that administer laws (bureaucracy) touch every aspect of American life. This lesson examines the role of administrative departments and agencies in America s
More informationFinal0501. Contents of Report
Gover nance Assistance of JICA -Toward indigenous development of democratic institutions, administrative functions and legal institutions in the developing world- Background and Purpose of Study Since
More informationUNIT 7: TRANSPARENCY, PARTICIPATION AND OUTREACH
UNIT 7: TRANSPARENCY, PARTICIPATION AND OUTREACH Learning Objectives How do parliamentary committees enhance transparency, participation and outreach? After studying this unit you should be able to: Outline
More informationBoard Policy 1 Division Foundation Statements
Board Policy 1 Division Foundation Statements The Board of Trustees is a democratically elected body that holds in trust the education of students on behalf of the citizens of Golden Hills and is accountable
More informationRegulation No 170 Rīga Rules of Procedure of the Cabinet of Ministers. I. General Provisions
Unofficial translation With amendments to Regulation No 834 as of 28.07.2009; Regulation No 170 as of 23.02.2010 23.02.2010 Regulation No 170 Rīga Rules of Procedure of the Cabinet of Ministers (Protocol
More informationCo.Co.A. Constitutional Rights of Local Government. Lithuania. Prepared by: Vitalija Tamavičiūt
Co.Co.A. Comparing Constitutional Adjudication A Summer School on Comparative Interpretation of European Constitutional Jurisprudence 2nd Edition - 2007 Constitutional Rights of Local Government Lithuania
More information3 RD WESTMINSTER WORKSHOP, THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE JUNE 2013 AIM
3 RD WESTMINSTER WORKSHOP, THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE 24-27 JUNE 2013 AIM 1. The aim of the four day Westminster Workshop programme is to explore the key features of an effective Public Accounts Committee
More informationParliament and Accountability. Rasheed Draman
Parliament and Accountability Rasheed Draman Perceived levels of corruption in key institutions, global average and SSA Political parties average: (Source, GCB 2010) 70% 79% Public officials/civil servants
More informationPOWERS AND LIABILITIES OF THE PRESIDENT DUAL LEADERSHIP IS ABOLISHED CRIMINAL LIABILITY IS APPLIED TO THE PRESIDENT AND MINISTERS
POWERS AND LIABILITIES OF THE PRESIDENT DUAL LEADERSHIP IS ABOLISHED Powers of the President and Prime Minister will be integrated. The President will become the head of executive power. Dual leadership
More informationTHE INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS BILL, 2012
THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS BILL, 2012 ARRANGEMENT OF CLAUSES Clause PART I PRELIMINARY 1 Short title and commencement. 2 Interpretation. 3 Objects and purposes of the Act. 4 Principles of intergovernmental
More informationChapter 1: Principles of Government Section 1
Chapter 1: Principles of Government Section 1 Objectives 1. Define government and the basic powers every government holds. 2. Describe the four defining characteristics of a state. 3. Identify four theories
More informationGOLD FIELDS LIMITED. ( GFI or the Company ) BOARD CHARTER. (Approved by the Board of Directors on 16 August 2016)
1 GOLD FIELDS LIMITED ( GFI or the Company ) BOARD CHARTER (Approved by the Board of Directors on 16 August 2016) 2 1. INTRODUCTION The Board Charter is subject to the provisions of the South African Companies
More informationDuring the decade of the 50 s, the national territories were made into provinces and 8 new provinces were admitted: Chaco, Chubut, Formosa, La Pampa,
CONSIDERATION OF SUBNATIONAL CONSTITUTIONS IN ARGENTINA By ANTONIO M. HERNANDEZ, Professor in Constitutional Law and Professor in State Constitutional Law and Municipal Law at the National University of
More informationCOMMITTEE OF EXPERTS OF THE FOLLOW-UP MECHANISM FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INTER-AMERICAN CONVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION
COMMITTEE OF EXPERTS OF THE FOLLOW-UP MECHANISM FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INTER-AMERICAN CONVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION REPORT ON IMPLEMENTATION IN NICARAGUA OF THE CONVENTION PROVISIONS SELECTED FOR
More informationSummary. The nature and scope of accounting officer appearances
Summary The nature and scope of accounting officer appearances The new accounting officer provisions of the Financial Administration Act (FAA) designate deputy ministers and deputy heads of designated
More information