August 14, 2022
Mike J. Masoud
It is not uncommon to read about or hear misconceptions about accountability. For example, one should be careful to distinguish between accountability and responsibility. Many decision-makers and policy-makers have a clear understanding of what accountability is, while many others do not. Therefore, I discuss the accountability concept to provide decision makers, the core of the target audience of The American Anti-Corruption Institute (AACI), with an overview of the concept and its elements.
Accountability: Definition
The AACI defines accountability as “the duty to report to stakeholders the results of executed responsibilities based on entrusted power. ” In a context of governance, accountability is a governance concept and falls primarily on those who are charged with governance. When applied properly, it restrains power and lowers corruption risks. 1
Elements of Accountability
The following diagram shows clearly the elements of accountability. They are:
1. Principal
2. Agent
3. Implementation mechanism, and
4. Contract
While the principal has the right to request specific information from the agent, the agent is obliged to respond accordingly. The laws, rules, and regulations should state clearly the rights and obligations of each of the principals and agents and state the mechanisms to resolve their potential disputes. Courts, for example, are a mechanism that should be available as a mechanism to settle disputes.
But what if the judicial branch of government is not effective or a deterrent? What happens if there is insufficient or excessive accountability? What will happen when either the principal and/or agent are not aware enough of how to exercise their accountability rights and duties? To some extent, the answers to these questions determine the level of corruption in a country, economic sector, or institution.
Sources
1. Exam Unit, “Principles of Fighting Corruption,” Certified Anti-Corruption Manager (CACM) Review Textbook, 2022 ed. (United States of America: The Exam Unit of The American Anti-Corruption Institute LLC., January 14, 2022) page 37.
