Key Features of Good Governance

Good governance ensures the effective, ethical, and accountable management of public affairs and resources. It has several defining features:

1. Transparency

• Decisions and processes are open and accessible, ensuring the public can understand how decisions are made. For example, clear budgeting processes can help prevent corruption.

2. Accountability

• Leaders and institutions must be held accountable for their actions. If a government misuses public funds, it should be answerable to the citizens.

3. Responsiveness

• Governments should address the needs of the people in a timely and efficient manner. A government that responds to health or educational needs shows this quality.

4. Participation

• In a democratic governance system, all citizens should have the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes, either directly or through elected representatives.

5. Rule of Law

• Laws should be fair, consistently enforced, and protect human rights. This ensures equality before the law, as seen in fair legal processes and the protection of civil liberties.

6. Equity and Inclusiveness

• Good governance ensures that all groups, especially the marginalized, have the opportunity to improve and maintain their well-being.

These features help foster trust in government and ensure human rights and societal development​