Transparency is a fundamental component of a thriving democracy. It acts as a bridge that connects the government with the people. Recently, we have seen a global outcry as nations yearn for government accountability. They want to free themselves from the lies and confusion.
With this blog, we will be delving into transparency and how it is a universal unifying force, strengthening the bond between the people and government institutions.
Evolution
Throughout history, governments have operated in secret. Decisions were usually made behind closed doors, leaving the public out of the picture. There needed to be reasoning behind their actions and the policies devised. Societies soon evolved as time passed, the voice of accountability grew louder, and for good reason.
Here is exactly how transparency connects the government and the public.
Decision-Making
Transparency helps the general public understand the governance and its rationale better. As a result, they can make better decisions about whom to elect and whom to blow the whistle against. An informed citizen is also likely to use their power in the democratic process, leading to positive results.
Responsive Governance
The more transparent information is exchanged between the parties, the more responsive the government must be. People are upfront with the improvements they want in the system and can confidently demand them. As a result, we would see a more efficient system that would help economic development.
Allocation of Resources
How does a government operate optimally? First, we must establish what we use as a performance metric for the governing body. A healthy, happy, and flourishing citizen can be seen as a mark of good governance in a nation. Moreover, real-time feedback and open communication channels help foster a sense of shared responsibility, where both the government and the public work in sync, leading to optimal allocation of resources.
Public Participation
In a transparent government, we see increased public participation, where citizens become active contributors to the nation. From public consultations to Town Hall meetings, providing platforms for the public to actively participate in the government allows for diverse perspectives.
Preventing Corruption
Lastly, arguably, the most glaring positive in a transparent government is the reduced risk of corruption. When the government begins to operate under full scrutiny, everything is upfront and on the table for the public to see. Citizens are armed with the most potent weapon in modern times: access to information.
Katya Fernandez, an independent journalist, realizes the importance of transparency as she opposes the "spun" media. As she navigates to investigative journalism, she receives a mysterious package at her doorstep with the warning, "Be careful who you trust." The package reveals a video that shows major corruption within the system.
What will Katya's next step be? Will she use her power as an independent journalist to help the people learn the truth?
Great Divide of the 4th Estate by author T.D. Hitchens is now available on Amazon.
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