Program Accountability
Program accountability (sometimes called accountability to or less than the affected population) describes how we try to be accountable to children and the communities we serve. They are often in a vulnerable position where the most powerful decision makers, including organizations, neglect their needs, rights and ideas. Program governance involves how organizations use power responsibly and create mechanisms that enable children and communities to hold us accountable.
Program ownership consists of four practices, sometimes referred to as pillars, that we combine when we directly engage children and communities in all types of programs.
- Provide information so that children and communities can make informed decisions and know what to expect from organizations.
- Consult with communities, including vulnerable children and marginalized groups, to learn about, understand and influence important decisions about our programs.
- Encourage participation so that children and communities are involved and take responsibility for activities that affect their lives.
- Collect feedback and complaints, and take steps so that children and the community can voice their views and concerns to make our work more relevant, effective and safe.
