Australian advocacy for good governance in Sri Lanka

What do we mean by good governance?

The fundamental indicator of good governance is free and fair elections with guarantees of freedom of expression, including the right to be critical of the Executive and the government. When people are bribed, coerced and manipulated in an unprecedented manner, how can one count such a vote as free, fair and voluntary expression of their will? To keep a government's integrity, not only adequate laws against graft and corruption are necessary, but impartial implementation of such laws is essential, as rights can only be enjoyed when there is a realistic means of investigation and enforcement.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) succinctly sets out the fundamental rights and freedoms that all human beings, regardless of race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, ethnicity and national background are entitled to enjoy. These rights are not just a construct based on Western ideals. They have deep roots in the traditions of all peoples. Human rights only have meaning when they can be enjoyed in a practical sense. Simply by reason of being human, every human being is entitled to universal human rights codified by the UN legal framework covering civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights.

Democracy and good governance refer to the protection of civil and political rights and economic and cultural rights, such as the rights of minority communities. Democracy becomes hollow without the protection of civil and political rights, and governance becomes bad without the rule of law and respect for human rights.

Good governance is defined as 'the transparent and accountable management of a country's resources for its equitable and sustainable economic and social development'. Essential ingredients of good governance consist of democratization, rule of law and respect for human rights.Good governance aims at achieving justice, and needs to be nurtured for ensuring respect for human rights. Assurances of protection of human rights will remain hollow, without the rule of law, independent courts and other social institutions that are essential components of good governance. Good governance is democratic governance, that values:

• Human Rights- respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms of people
• Civil Liberties- allowing people to live with dignity, freedom and justice
• Egalitarianism– a society free of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, class, gender, religion or any other attribute
• Inclusiveness- people having a say in decisions that affect their live
• Accountability- people can hold the decision-makers accountable
• Fairness- social inclusion and fair rules, institutions and practices governing social interactions
• Gender Equality- women are equal partners with men in private and public spheres of life
• Farsightedness– forward-looking policies to reflect the needs of future generations, and
• Socio-economic policy development- responsive to people's needs and aimed at eradicating poverty and improving the socio-economic status of the disadvantaged.

Recognition of the inherent dignity and of equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace. History teaches that transparent, responsible, accountable and participatory governance is a prerequisite for lasting wellbeing of a nation. Only Good Governance will bring enduring peace and prosperity.