Responsible Government. The Essence of Public Accountability

Research Paper (postgraduate) , 2015 , 9 Pages

Politics - Region: Africa

The study stems out of the growing concern among key governance stakeholders such as citizens, civil societies, political parties, international development organizations among other actors on the need to ensure accountability of public officials and improved public service delivery. The paper employs historical method to reveal the essence and domains of the concept of public accountability. The study traces the roots of the word and provides the justification for “accountor” and “accountee” behavior and relationship. Finally, the study outlines the importance of the concept in modern day politics

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Background
• The Concept of Accountability
• Domains of Accountability
• Financial Accountability
• Legal Accountability
• Political Accountability
• Administrative Accountability
• Social Accountability

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This paper explores the concept of public accountability and its significance in modern governance. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the concept, its domains, and its role in ensuring responsible government and improving public service delivery.

• The historical evolution and origins of public accountability
• The key elements and dimensions of accountability relationships
• The different domains of accountability, including financial, legal, political, administrative, and social accountability
• The importance of accountability for promoting transparency, good governance, and responsible use of public resources
• The challenges and opportunities associated with ensuring public accountability in contemporary societies

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

The "Background" section traces the historical roots of the concept of accountability, drawing on insights from Aristotle and Kautilya. It highlights the long-standing recognition of the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions.

The "Concept of Accountability" section delves into the definition and key elements of accountability, drawing upon the work of various scholars. It examines the accountability relationship between an "accountor" and an "accountee," emphasizing the obligation to explain and justify actions.

The "Domains of Accountability" section explores the different areas within which accountability is exercised, including financial, legal, political, administrative, and social accountability. It discusses the specific responsibilities and expectations associated with each domain.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The main keywords and focus topics of the text are: public accountability, good governance, transparency, responsible government, public service delivery, financial accountability, legal accountability, political accountability, administrative accountability, social accountability, accountability relationships, accountor, accountee, domains, actors, state, politics.

• Author: Samuel Asamoah (Author)
• Publication Year: 2015
• Pages: 9
• Catalog Number: V307991
• ISBN (eBook): 9783668064447
• ISBN (Book): 9783668064454
• Language: English
• Tags: accountability, public officials, public service, public accountability, responsible government, responsibility