Good governance is about how public organizations manage things and respect human rights without corruption or abuse. It includes several key elements:
- Accountability: This means government bodies, businesses, and groups must answer to those impacted by their decisions or actions.
- Transparency: Being open and clear is important in governance to avoid corruption and make sure public institutions work well.
- Participation: Good governance involves getting citizens to participate in making decisions, which supports democracy and makes sure the government meets the people’s needs.
- Equity and Inclusiveness: It’s about giving everyone, especially those most in need, the same chances to better their lives.
- Effectiveness and Efficiency: This focuses on providing public services like safety, health, education, and environmental care in a competent way.
- Rule of Law: This principle is central to good governance, ensuring that everyone, including the government, follows laws that are just and equally applied.
- Multi-actor Partnerships: Good governance requires cooperation among different groups like governments, businesses, and community organizations to reach shared objectives.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals also highlight good governance as key to inclusive growth, equal rights, and fighting corruption and illegal money flows.