Governance and Development Policy in South Asia

This chapter examines how governance stands at the heart of development in the area. Governance is not government but rather how public institutions, private sectors, and civil society make decisions and deliver services collaboratively. The chapter identifies that good governance based on accountability, transparency, participation, and effectiveness guarantees economic growth, social development, and sustainable development. It explores the effect of globalisation, financial reforms, and democracy on the governance institutions in South Asian countries. It also shows that, as governments become increasingly effective and accountable, citizens have better access to education, healthcare, and other essential services. Using a comparison between governance indicators, such as government effectiveness and control of corruption, the chapter demonstrates how more effective institutions lead to better development outcomes. Promoting good governance is needed to realise sustainable development and improve the living standards for all the citizens of South Asia.