Democratic Governance and Institutional Accountability in the 21st Century
Keywords:
Democratic governance, Institutional accountability, Transparency, Digital democracy, Civil society, SDG 16, Democratic backslidingAbstract
This article examines the evolving landscape of democratic governance and institutional accountability in the 21st century, with a focus on the mechanisms, challenges, and innovations that shape the integrity and effectiveness of modern democracies. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as democratic theory, new institutionalism, and accountability models, the study analyzes global trends using comparative case studies and cross-national governance indices. It explores successful practices in transparency and participation—such as Scandinavian anti-corruption systems and participatory budgeting in Brazil—alongside crises of democratic erosion in countries like Hungary and the United States. The article further investigates the dual impact of digital technologies, highlighting both their potential for enhancing civic oversight and the growing threat of digital authoritarianism. International frameworks such as SDG 16, the Open Government Partnership, and OECD guidelines are evaluated as normative benchmarks for reform. The study concludes that sustaining democratic governance requires legal innovation, strong civil society, public trust-building, and adaptive institutions that are resilient in the face of complex global challenges.
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