CORRUPTION

Transparency and Open Contracting
Transparency and Open Contracting
HIVOS
Some of the major challenges countries around the world are facing are caused or
accelerated by inefficient use of natural resources, mismanagement, and corruption. Big
data leaks like Swissleaks and the Panama Papers have made headlines around the
world, only making visible the tip of the iceberg of systematic misuse of power, fraud,
corruption, and tax evasion. In this sense, whistleblowing and leaking of classified information are to
be seen as civic duties and civic courage.
In response to the growing movement of citizens around the world demanding their governments
to become more transparent and accountable, governments are becoming increasingly responsive
to these demands and some are committing to good governance, open government, and taking
measures to mitigate corruption, as seen at the recent Anti-Corruption Summit in London, May 2016.
At the same time, the private sector has established practices of tax avoidance and tax evasion
in the world’s offshore tax havens, while the beneficial ownership of companies is hidden behind
opaque company constructions. These practices, often in a grey zone due to money-laundering and
criminal behavior, are also coming under increased pressure from a broader movement demanding
transparency, accountability, and tax justice.
Why do small entrepreneurs and citizens pay their fair share of taxes, and stick to the rules, while big
companies and the super-rich do not? Why should citizens be transparent about all their (financial)
whereabouts and spending, while governments do not? Meanwhile governments spend staggering
amounts of public money, in a way that lacks transparency, and hence nobody can be held properly
accountable.
International Affairs Forum
At Hivos, we believe that citizens should not have to depend on “leaks” to be informed on what
governments and private companies are doing. Citizens have the right and the need to know, and
therefore should be able to follow public money flows, just like governments and companies should
be. Public money brings along a public responsibility.
Transparency, Accountability, and Citizen Engagement
Hivos envisions an Open Society where democratic institutions enable citizens to shape society
and take control over their lives. Transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement are essential
elements, because better governance will only be achieved if citizens are able to question authorities,
denounce abuse, and have meaningful opportunities to hold their governments accountable.
The missing link between Transparency and Accountability is citizen engagement. As a result,
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