Abat Bertha

We often think of transparency and accountability as terms reserved for institutions from governments to corporations, from employers to employees. They are, of course, essential in those contexts. But the deeper meaning of these values goes far beyond organizational structures.

Transparency and accountability are not just institutional principles, they are human commitments.

To be transparent is to live with clarity to allow others to see us as we really are. This doesn’t mean disclosing everything, but rather, living truthfully. It means our intentions, our actions, and our values align.

Accountability, similarly, is not only about external checks and balances. It is the inner willingness to reflect, to take responsibility, and to grow. It takes courage to say, “I was wrong,” and humility to ask, “How can I do better?”

Before we demand transparency from our institutions, we must practice it in our own lives.

“Integrity is choosing courage over comfort; choosing what is right over what is fun, fast, or easy.” — Brené Brown, Dare to Lead

As human rights defenders and advocates for justice, we are called to challenge systems of oppression and demand accountability from those in power. But advocacy also demands integrity. We must embody the very values we promote.

In Asia and beyond, many examples show how grassroots movements are driven by this kind of ethical leadership:

• In Indonesia, the youth-led #ReformasiDikorupsi movement has challenged systemic corruption and defended civic transparency, particularly after the weakening of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).
• In India, the Right to Information (RTI) Act empowers everyday citizens to demand answers from public officials. Grassroots organizations like MKSS in Rajasthan have used RTI to expose mismanagement of local development funds.
• In the Philippines, the Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) empowers communities to gather their own data, enabling local leaders and residents to engage in more accountable and informed governance.

These movements remind us that transparency is not merely a bureaucratic requirement, it is a foundation for trust, justice, and change.

_{The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) identifies transparency and accountability as the pillars of good governance, vital for building trust and achieving sustainable development.}

“Transparency and accountability are the foundation of good governance. They strengthen institutions, improve service delivery, and promote trust between governments and people.” — UNDP Governance Principles

But these principles do not only belong in government reports or boardrooms. They must be lived in our homes, our friendships, our advocacy, and our workplaces.

They apply to every sphere of life:

• In personal relationships, they foster openness and mutual respect.
• In community action, they inspire solidarity and consistency.
• In leadership, they build credibility and ethical influence.
• In governance, they ensure power is exercised with responsibility and fairness.

Practicing transparency and accountability is not easy. It means facing our contradictions, being open to critique, and constantly realigning our actions with our values. But it is worth it, because in doing so, we build a culture where dignity and justice are not just words, but lived realities.

In a time when public trust is fragile and injustice often goes unchecked, embodying these values is a powerful form of leadership. Whether in positions of power or in everyday life, the courage to be clear with ourselves and others, is how we begin to transform society.

What does transparency look like in your daily life?
How do you hold yourself accountable , even when no one is watching?
In your community, what practices build trust and authenticity?

✨ I’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to share your reflections in the comments, or message me directly.

Let’s build a culture of honesty and courage — from self to society.