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xThe power of open budgets: a tool to make human rights real in Scotland
Date: 24th July 2024
Category:
General measures of implementation, General principles
Author:
Scottish Human Rights Commission
This blog by Scottish Human Rights Commission talks about Open Budget Survey (OBS) 2023, conducted by the International Budget Partnership, and highlighting the state of budget transparency and accountability globally. The Open Budget Survey (OBS) 2023 by the International Budget Partnership shows Scotland's progress in making financial information more accessible and comprehensive since 2019.
Scotland’s National Human Rights Institution emphasises that promoting human rights involves ensuring public investments effectively support services. While transparency is important for understanding tax allocation and societal progress, meaningful citizen engagement is equally important.
The quality of budget oversight in Scotland is underscored by the OBS 2023 results, highlighting the critical roles of parliamentary committees and independent audit bodies in holding the government accountable. Effective scrutiny depends on access to detailed fiscal data, ensuring responsible governance.
Why does this matter? Democracy thrives on active citizen engagement and awareness. Transparent budgets and public participation enable advocacy for policies to address child poverty, climate change, and public service improvements. These principles are vital for building resilient and inclusive societies, especially amidst global challenges like COVID-19 recovery, inflation, and geopolitical conflicts.