Accountability
Government accountability refers to mechanisms that ensure governments remain both accessible and responsive to the people they serve.
Why redesign accountability?
Changing the goal: move beyond short-term goals
Most governments lack the robust mechanisms to enforce long-term accountability. Short election cycles prioritise immediate, visible results over long-term outcomes.
Thinking in systems: balance robust oversight with scope to learn and adapt
Effective accountability requires balancing robust oversight with space for learning and adaptation. Weak accountability systems may lead to corruption and elite capture while eroding public trust. However, overly rigid mechanisms that rely on detailed rules, strict control, and punitive measures can stifle learning, demoralise civil servants, and reduce performance. Without scope to learn, experiment, and adapt, governments have limited ability to tackle complex societal challenges.
Emerging alternatives: redesigning accountability
The examples below show different possibilities to redesign accountability. Use them as inspiration to find the approach that works best for your context.
Embedding long-term accountability
Governments can embed long-term accountability within their rules and processes. Dedicated bodies can be established to hold authorities accountable for long-term outcomes. Laws can be enacted, and channels can be provided for citizens to hold government accountable for long-term ecological and social outcomes.
Learn more:
- Nesta outlines mechanisms for How to build long-term thinking into government, including an overview of good practices.
- Module 8 - Building capacity and accountability for progress of the Wellbeing Economy Policy Design Course offers guidance on how to strengthen accountability for wellbeing, as a long-term goal for governments.
Credit: Wales Future Generation Commissioner
Learning-centred accountability
Governments can adopt accountability mechanisms that encourage continuous learning and adaptation.
Learn more:
- In its 2024 discussion paper Balancing Act: A Liberated Approach to Public Service Accountability, Demos proposes three shifts to strengthen accountability.
- Human Learning System offers tools and methods to hold governments accountable over learning.
- Dan Honig's book Mission Driven Bureaucrats: Empowering People To Help Government Do Better offers insights and practical guidance to reimagine accountability in governments (paid access).
Share your ideas and tools
Do you have any other ideas on how governments can redesign accountability systems? We would welcome your feedback and suggestions.
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