05/09/2017
Within the framework of the ACTUE-Colombia Project, a first meeting was held to exchange experiences for the development of a territorial open government
Within the framework of the ACTUE-Colombia Project, funded by the European Union and managed by FIIAPP, a first meeting was held in Bogotá to exchange experiences in the development and implementation of initiatives for open government at departmental level. Eighteen initiatives implemented by the current governorates to improve the form of government to bring the State closer to citizens through the key principles of open government were analysed collectively: transparency and access to information, accountability, citizen participation and innovation (in terms of both technology and management).
The governor of the department of Huila shared an experience in open government and governance in the environmental area which not only made it possible to seek solutions for the problems identified but also to reduce the level of social conflict considerably.
The governorate of Nariño presented its comprehensive strategy for open government, “GANAâ€, with an emphasis on the declaration of assets, income and interests by political leaders; online publication of all departmental contracting; and the development of infographics to show citizens the benefits of open data.
During the kick-off for the event, the director of Participation, Transparency and Public Service of the Civil Service stressed the importance of this initiative for strengthening the capacities of territorial entities in a scenario of peace-building.
The director of Red RINDE (Network of Initiatives for Governance, Democracy and Territorial Development Association), the organisation leading this initiative with the support of FIIAPP, highlighted the importance of the leadership of the territorial entities in issues as crucial as the form of government in a context of a decentralised country with significant challenges in implementation of the Peace Agreements.
The director of the ACTUE-Colombia project indicated the need for seeking concrete and tangible results for citizens with a view to (re-)construction of trust in and legitimacy of the State. Meanwhile the deputy director of Territorial Strengthening of the Federation of Departments has announced that a permanent line of work on transparency and issues related to open government will be opened to ensure the sustainability of this initiative.
Representatives from 25 of the country’s 32 governorates participated in the event. The favourable reception reaffirms the relevance of this initiative supported by ACTUE-Colombia for creating and promoting a Network of Open Governates.
