In this lesson, we will explore the definition of governance and its relationship with corruption.

Look at the two photos. Pull the tab either to the right or left to view each image in full.

How are the two photos similar? How are they different? What do you think caused this difference?

The United Nations defines governance as “the structures and processes whereby a social organization steers itself”. It has also defined it more simply as “the process of decision-making and the process by which decisions are implemented or not implemented”

Good governance in the public sector encourages better decision making and the efficient use of resources. It strengthens accountability for the stewardship of those resources. Good governance can improve management, leading to more effective implementation of plans and programs, better service delivery, and, ultimately, better outcomes. The lives of citizens are thereby improved when a country is run effectively. Differences between a country in turmoil and a country that is properly managed can be stark.