ABSTRACT
The context The framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) formulated by the United Nations (UN) acknowledges the criticality of improving governance. The SDGs recognise some aspects of governance as core elements of well-being as well as enablers of development, which include among others: free, safe and peaceful societies; access to fair justice systems; and participatory democracy. Some of the other important parameters of governance have been recognised primarily as enablers of development, for instance: effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels; reducing corruption and bribery in all their forms; and reducing illicit financial flows and the recovery and return of stolen assets. Though a range of issues relating to the quality of governance and effectiveness of institutions has been highlighted in the discourse on SDGs, it is necessary to probe deeper into this area from a fiscal policy perspective.
