Accountability and good governance are strong themes of development interventions in general, but have yet to be applied systematically to social protection programmes.
Social assistance accountability mechanisms usually focus on two main areas: (i) the flow of information and (ii) the flow of funds (Bassett et al., 2012). Most programmes have implemented a series of audits, spot checks, grievance redress mechanisms and other good governance principles. There is also a broader understanding of accountability as providing social justice and empowerment to citizens, but there is much less discussion and evidence on this in relation to social protection programmes.
In general, much of the literature is focused on best practice, lessons learned, the theory and principles of accountability, and policy guidance. There is little systematic evidence on whether accountability mechanisms have improved programmes or had effects on human development outcomes.
