We are citizens and civil society organizations from around the globe working together to advance inclusive and open budgets around the world. While much has improved from the time when governments justified unrestricted budget secrecy, much more can and must be achieved. Progress has been unequal among countries, and among all levels of government within countries. Progress has also not been sustained. And progress has been unequal.
We know that transparent and inclusive budgets are essential for improving service delivery, poverty alleviation, the realization of human rights, social justice, and environmental sustainability. We have also demonstrated that civil society engagement can significantly improve budget processes, decisions and outcomes, and thus transform the lives of people. This is why we must work together and pressure our governments and parliaments to Make Budgets Public NOW!
