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Political Governance Cedric Saldanha Pacific 2020 Need for Good Political Governance Pacific countries have to cope with enormous inherent constraints – – – – – small populations great distances from markets susceptibility to the vagaries of nature scarce natural resources for some countries Pacific countries therefore need strong and accountable political governance – to steer through these substantial constraints Good Political Governance Responsible management of the state – – – – – predictable policy regimes, responsible fiscal management, efficient delivery of essential services, maintenance of law and justice, sustainable custodianship of the country’s natural resources. Responsiveness and accountability to the people – fair and transparent electoral systems, – systems of political and public accountability, and – well functioning oversight bodies. Engendering a sense of nationhood – particularly important in Pacific countries that are young nations and, in some cases, an amalgam of disparate tribal and ethnic groups. Manifestations of Poor Political Governance Political Instability Weak Parliaments Corruption Weak Executive Governments Failure of Institutions of Good Governance Some Key Causes of Poor Governance Socio cultural traditions – Democracy does not have a long history in the Pacific Weak Nationalism – tribal groups, distinct languages, culture and traditions Complex governance structures – often beyond capacities of current governments Incentives and sanctions for effective leadership are often missing Civil Society unable to hold leaders accountable – Traditions of not questioning authority Inadequate presence of Women – and their potentially beneficial influences in key processes of government Need to take account of Three Key Trends Pressures for Devolution and Autonomy Civil Society Activism Regional and International Expectations Strategies to Support Good Governance Each country must work out its own strategies. – Governance is deeply interwoven with local, cultural context. Need to strengthen the ‘supply side’ of governance – what government can do More importantly, need to catalyse stronger demand for good political governance – what key stakeholders can do Strengthening the Supply Side of Good Political Governance Strong Parliaments and Oversight Bodies Sound electoral processes and well functioning parliament Seats for Women Effective (well supported) Oversight Bodies Effective executive government and public service Transparent policy and decision making Meritocracy in public service Professional fiscal and financial management Results-based management for services and regulation Increased local government’s integration with customary or traditional community leaders Justice systems Government/community collaboration in community services Community consultation Promoting the Role of Women and a Sense of Nationhood Affirmative action for women in parliament and the executive Equitable inter-governmental financing system Civic education Strengthening the Demand Side of Good Political Governance Support Civil Society Organizations in their efforts to hold government accountable Services ‘report card’ initiatives Encourage debate in Academia and Press Responsible Chamber of Commerce engagement with government Support Role of Women Promote a Sense of Nationhood