Strengthening Public Oversight in Climate Initiatives from Transparency International
“There is increasing global recognition of the importance of effective climate governance; both in terms of how climate decisions and investments are made, and how these commitments are translated into action, impact, and results. Yet, much of the global discussion still focuses on where climate finance flows – an essential but incomplete piece of the puzzle.“
So said Anoukh de Soysa, Climate Governance Specialist at Transparency International, when writing on the need for mechanisms for improved social accountability of climate initiatives, which highlights the role of Participatory Budgeting. Originally posted on the 24th July 2025, de Soysa highlights three particularly compelling reasons for needing better citizen oversight on climate:
- “Build public trust and legitimacy: At a time when global faith in climate-related processes and institutions is fragile, effective social accountability in climate action allows individuals and communities to influence decisions that affect their lives. This, in turn, increases the credibility of climate initiatives, secures public buy-in, and revitalises proactive civic engagement.“
- “Amplify climate impact: Public participation in exercising oversight of climate initiatives not only strengthens accountability but makes them more effective as well. It leads to more responsive planning, better-quality implementation, and often a stronger focus on long-term, equitable climate outcomes.“
- “Respond to critical needs: Social accountability helps ensure that climate finance reaches the people and places that need it most. By giving meaningful voice to those most vulnerable to climate change, climate finance and resources can be allocated in ways that address the most pressing needs, rather than political expedience or vested interests.“
“In short, as the urgency of tackling the climate crisis intensifies, people holding power to account is not just ‘nice to have’. Social accountability stands to unleash a raft of social, economic, political and, crucially, climate gains that make it an indispensable feature of impactful and inclusive climate action.“
As part of Transparency International’s work on climate themed social accountability they will be collating resources and producing new guidance.
Read the full article on the Transparency International website
Read their KnowledgeHub information on Participatory Budgeting