Requesting Accountability

What is accountability? An entity (or individual) is accountable when its actions, practices and policies are open to inspection by those whom they affect, those to whom they have obligations, and those who regulate them, and when there are clear consequences for actions, practices, or policies that are illegal, harmful, unethical, different from what was agreed upon, or incompetent. 2

Why might you request accountability? To assure that people are getting what they need. To protect the public from harm, physical or otherwise. To protect the public's right to know. To encourage, and prevent retaliation for, whistleblowing. To see that citizens are compensated for injury or loss caused by the intentional wrongdoing of some entity.

Why might you request accountability? (cont.) To prevent the misuse of taxpayer funds that could better be spent elsewhere. To assure that consumers get what they pay for To keep government, businesses, and institutions from acting unethically. To procure simple justice. 4

When might you seek accountability? When some members of the community are in need, and nothing is being done. When an entity is about to, or continues to, do something harmful. When economic damage s being, or about to be, done. When a business wants to locate in a community. 5

When might you seek accountability? (cont.) When an elected official or someone running for office has violated the public trust, has misrepresented his positions or background, or is otherwise unfit for public office. When some individual or interest has unfairly or illegally influenced official policy or the votes of elected officials. When a blatant injustice is about to be done. 6

Who is accountable, and to whom? Elected and appointed government officials. Law enforcement. Government agencies. Government contractors. Nonprofits that seek money directly from the public. Corporations. Individuals trying to influence policy. Individuals within an organization whose jobs give them power. 7

How do you seek accountability? Do the necessary research. Decide what kind of accountability you want. Appeal directly to the entity. Go to a regulatory agency for help. Go public. Institute direct action. Engage in legislative advocacy to get new laws passed. Sue. 8

In Summary Holding government, business, institutions, organizations, and individuals accountable is an important part of fostering and supporting policies that work toward the betterment of a community. Seeking accountability helps to make sure necessary public services are provided. Requesting accountability starts with research. Once you've obtained the level of accountability necessary, you're on your way to positive community change. 9