DUBAI // Information technology can drive progress only when there is an open and free environment encouraging civil engagement and constructive criticism, the United Nations secretary general said on Monday.
Ban Ki-moon said the UAE had shown dynamism in modernising the government while preserving rich traditions.
“We need to address marginalisation that drives radicalisation,” he said in his opening address at the Government Summit in Dubai.
“Leaders must listen to the voices [of the people] carefully and sincerely – what their aspirations and challenges are.”
People around the world were calling as never before for greater transparency, accountability and democracy.
Mr Ban said: “Governments that answer these calls will be strong. Leaders who place themselves above the law and people who put their own governments at risk of collapse and corrupt abusive public institutions breed hopelessness that leads to unrest and instability.
“True stability demands trusted institutions that deliver for people equality. Efficiency in government is more than a matter of smooth functioning, it demands public institutions that truly [serve] the common good.”
He said: “There are three important events this year that are priorities for this world, the UN and humanity.
“The third International Conference on Financing for Development, in July, the Special Summit meeting of the UN general assembly, and the Climate Change Conference, in December. Countries must adopt a meaningful climate change agreement and this can be a turning point in our efforts to safeguard our future.”
He said the success of these plans would depend on accountable and transparent governments that engaged people.
“Civil society groups often stand for issues that communities care about the most, such as human rights, basic services and justice,” he said.
“I count on governments to give them a meaningful say in national policy making.”
States should involve more citizens in the development challenge.
Mr Ban said: “Information technology can allow people to set priorities.
“When governments open their books to the public, they own trust. That is critical to building stronger communities and states. This year marks the UN’s 70th anniversary and the dawn of a new era for development. This new époque calls for a new government model, one that is ready for the future; accountable, transparent, inclusive and participatory.”
He said: “We need the rule of law. From egovernance in Northern Europe to youth mobilisation in Southern Africa, there is no one size fits all solution.”
cmalek@thenational.ae
