So, What is Good Governance?

I first heard of the term “good governance” in 2005 while studying community development, specializing in governance. While the term “governance” was often used, the term had a neutral value.

The term “governance” means: “the process of decision-making and the process by which decisions are implemented (or not implemented)”.[1]

(That means “governance” could be bad or it could be good.)

In the early 2000’s, significant research was conducted into the quality of governance of countries around the world. As a result, the need for reform as well as determining the capacity to reform was recognized. Numerous reports and guidelines were developed and the term “good governance” has now become widely-used.

SO, WHAT ARE THE 8 CHARACTERISTICS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE?

• participatory
• consensus oriented
• accountable
• transparent
• responsive
• effective and efficient
• equitable and inclusive
• follows the rule of law

It assures that corruption is minimized, the views of minorities are taken into account and that the voices of the most vulnerable in society are heard in decision-making. It is also responsive to the present and future needs of society.[2]

Sounds like good governance is a reasonable expectation, right?

We should be able to expect good governance from our governments as well as from community organizations to which we donate time and/or money, correct?

So, how does good governance measure up in your board or council meetings?

What areas need improvement?

Until next time…..GO in the right direction!

Diana Bacon
Governance Optimizer

Stay tuned …. for the next Governance Optimizer Blog (aka GO Blog)!

[1] [2] http://www.unescap.org/sites/default/files/good-governance.pdf