Governance & institutions
Good Governance
The quality of how decisions are made and implemented in public institutions — participatory, transparent, accountable, and law-based — recognised as a precondition for sustainable development.
Definition
Good governance describes the manner in which power is exercised in managing a society's affairs, characterised by eight qualities identified by UNESCAP: participation, rule of law, transparency, responsiveness, consensus orientation, equity and inclusiveness, effectiveness and efficiency, and accountability. It assures that corruption is minimised, the views of minorities are taken into account, and the voices of the most vulnerable are heard in decision-making.
References
authoritative characteristics
Overview
What it means
Governance is how decisions are made; "good" governance is how well. The concept entered development policy through the World Bank's 1992 report "Governance and Development" and now underpins the institutional pillar of sustainability: environmental laws, climate finance, and social programmes all fail without institutions that are capable, honest, and answerable.
How it is used
Donors assess governance in country programmes; the concept informs SDG 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions) and corporate governance analogues; and it frames anti-corruption and public-administration reform.
Why it matters
Sustainability outcomes are delivered (or not) by institutions; good governance names the qualities that make delivery possible. **Note:** Confidence rated Medium in the review table because the term is broad; the UNESCAP characteristics provide the anchor.
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