democratic accountability

Democratic accountability is a core principle in political science, referring to the obligation of individuals and institutions to answer for their duties and actions to an authority that can reward or punish them. In democracies, this means elected officials are accountable to the citizens who vote for them.12

This accountability is crucial for good governance, ensuring that those in power act in the public interest. However, modern governance, with its complex networks of public and private actors, presents challenges to traditional lines of accountability. Ensuring that all parties involved are answerable for their decisions is vital for maintaining democratic legitimacy and public trust.31