This book provides a general overview of accountability, a key concept in modern democratic governance. Richard Mulgan draws on examples and analyses from the United States and the United Kingdom as well as other 'Westminster' countries. Major topics discussed include the contrast between accountability in the public and private sectors, the effects of public management reforms on accountability, accountability for collective actions, accountability in networks and the limits of accountability.

A framework for the exploration of accountability deficits (gaps) and overloads (overlaps) in the context of public governance regimes.

Arguing that we only have democracy when systems of power are held to account, Kaufman examines the real work being done to challenge the operations of power that underlie four unruly social problems: climate change, sweatshop labour, police abuse, and economic deprivation. In Challenging Power, Kaufman pairs each of these issues with an operation of power -- the large scale influence of multinational corporations; the power of governments; the authority of financial markets; and the control inherent in systems of meaning -- and using case studies like the Rana Plaza disaster in Bangladesh and the killing of Eric Garner, forcefully demonstrates what is involved in challenging these operations of power. Advancing a positive message, Kaufman maintains that these networks are not omnipotent and can be challenged if we develop 'mechanisms of accountability' which allow us to conceptualise the nature of these problems and the actions required to resist them. Kaufman provides then, a model for ethical action that allows us to investigate and appreciate our own connections to the powerful forces that control our world.

In an increasingly interconnected and complex world, the quality of governance can make or break a nation’s success. "Good Governance: Principles and Practices for Modern States" offers a thorough exploration of what effective governance looks like in the 21st century, blending timeless principles with contemporary challenges. This book breaks down the essential pillars of good governance—transparency, accountability, the rule of law, and citizen participation—while offering practical strategies that governments, institutions, and individuals can use to create fairer, more responsive systems. Through engaging discussions and real-world case studies, Good Governance addresses the key issues facing modern states: the rise of digital technologies, the battle against corruption, and the need for more inclusive participation in the decision-making process. It delves into how governance models have evolved over time, the differences between democratic and autocratic systems, and the critical role of leadership in shaping public policy. Whether you’re a policymaker, academic, or engaged citizen, this book provides an in-depth understanding of how governance impacts everything from economic growth to social equity. The book also explores governance in a global context, examining the role of international institutions, the importance of cooperation on issues like climate change and public health, and the governance challenges faced by developing nations. With a focus on practical solutions and future trends, it highlights how governments can harness digital transformation, sustainable practices, and innovation to meet the needs of their citizens in an ever-changing landscape. What you will find in this book: Deep insights into core governance principles Strategies for combatting corruption and promoting transparency Case studies from developed and developing nations The role of technology and AI in governance Sustainable and ethical governance models for the future Good Governance is your essential resource for understanding and improving governance in today’s complex world.

Business Journalism: A Critical Political Economy Approach critically explores the failures of business journalists in striking the balance between the bottom line business model and their role in defending the public interest. Drawing on historical and political economic perspectives and analysing these in relation to critical political economic theory, the book explores failures of business journalism through the dwindling of social responsibility in the business journalist’s role in holding political and corporate power to account. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw draws on a diverse range of case studies, including: investigative journalism in The Standard Oil and Enron Scandals corporate propaganda in relation to business reporting financial Journalism and the global financial crises of the late-90s and 2008 public business journalism and subprime mortgage loans, horsemeat and bent iPhone 6 scandals ethical challenges of business and journalism from developed to emerging BRICS economies business or financial journalism? Modernity vs postmodernity, macroeconomics vs microeconomics challenges of business journalism in the digital age. Business Journalism: A Critical Political Economy Approach is essential reading for students and scholars interested in understanding the historical failings and potential futures for business journalism and those wishing to develop specialist financial, economic and business reporting in today’s globalised media landscape.

In its case law on the use of lethal and potentially lethal force, the European Court of Human Rights declares a fundamental connection between the right to life in Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights and democratic society. This book discusses how that connection can be understood by using narrative theory to explore Article 2 law's specificities and its deeper historical, social and political significance. Focusing on the domestic policing and law enforcement context, the book draws on an extensive analysis of case law from 1995 to 2017. It shows how the connection with democratic society in Article 2's substantive and procedural dimensions underlines the right to life's problematic duality, as an expression of a basic value demanding a high level of protection and a contextually limited provision allowing states leeway in the use of force. Emphasising the need to identify clear standards in the interpretation and application of the right to life, the book argues that Article 2 law's narrative dimensions bring to light its core purposes and values. These are to extract meaning from pain and death, ground democratic society's foundational distinction between acceptable force and unacceptable violence, and indicate democratic society's essential attributes as a restrained, responsible and reflective system.