Democracy and Governance
The USAID democracy and governance program strengthens democratic institutions, rule of law, and citizen participation in local and national government; broadens the participation of traditionally marginalized groups in all programs; and reinforces popular support for democracy. Focusing on citizen participation as the cornerstone of democracy, USAID empowers citizens to demand responsiveness from their government.
Transparency and Accountability of Public Institutions: Transparent and accountable public institutions are the hallmark of a government that is responsive to the needs of its citizens. Institutions that are receptive to Hondurans will adopt the public’s priorities and will demonstrate their commitment to serve the public by operating transparently. To improve public sector responsiveness and performance, USAID partners with civil society groups to monitor transparency, accountability, and adherence to laws, an important “watchdog” function critical for public sector effectiveness. USAID also works directly with government institutions to constructively incorporate civil society input and improve the implementation of policies and laws.
Elections: USAID engages with Honduran election authorities and civil society groups to implement reforms and improve management systems for free and fair elections. For example, activities assist the Honduran Supreme Electoral Tribunal to train poll workers and introduce practices that increase transparency. USAID also supports civil society’s efforts to monitor campaign finances, perform parallel vote tabulations, observe voting processes on election day, and advocate for improvements in the electoral process. This collaboration contributed to successful primary elections in 2008 and general elections in 2009, and it was crucial to the reestablishment of democratic rule in Honduras in 2010.
Improved Delivery of Government Services at the Local Level: To demonstrate the benefits and support the decentralization of authority and resources, USAID works with local stakeholders on improving the delivery of government services. Activities improve key municipal services by strengthening government management and oversight, engaging constituents in improving service delivery, and partnering with national level institutions. This approach involves civil society oversight of local service delivery, use of public resources, and access to public information to ensure that government and services are responsive to citizens’ needs. Assistance also helps local government solicit citizen participation and feedback on government and local service provider performance. USAID additionally supports advocacy for decentralization as well as practices, laws, budgetary structures, and frameworks that promote effective and transparent governance, particularly at the local level.
Civic Awareness: In a functioning democracy, those who participate in the democratic process determine what the government’s priorities will be, and which services it will provide. Accordingly, USAID promotes civic education and a culture of dialogue to increase democratic awareness and political tolerance and to encourage civic responsibility and political participation. This helps all individuals exercise their voice in government, so that Honduras can respond to the needs of all citizens.
USAID ASSISTANCE TO HONDURAS IN DEMOCRACY AND GOVERNANCE
(in $US millions) |
FY 2009
Actual |
FY 2010
Actual |
FY 2011
Request |
FY 2012
Request |
Democracy and Governance Assistance |
4.5 |
9.5 |
12.4 |
12.6 |
|
