Concept and Characteristics of Governance
Concept of Governance
In a general sense, governance refers to the actions undertaken by the government in the process of state management. It encompasses the methods, processes, standards, and approaches adopted by the government in running the state. The term "governance" originates from the Greek word Kobernao, meaning "to steer or direct" the state system and resources.
Traditionally, governance was understood as a system of control and direction, using the state's authority to ensure citizens' loyalty. In modern state systems, governance involves the mobilization of public resources by citizen representatives for public welfare and the management of public affairs. In essence, governance is the integrated and practical functioning of all three branches of government—legislative, executive, and judicial—for regulation, management, public mobilization, and service delivery in the interest of the people.
Fundamental Aspects of Governance
The various components integral to the governance system are considered its fundamental aspects. These are outlined as follows:
- Citizen Supremacy: Citizens are the ultimate source of state authority, and governance operates solely based on their will. Ensuring citizens' rights and freedoms is a fundamental aspect of the governance system.
- Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances: Governance operates with a division of responsibilities among government branches, each functioning within its defined powers. Constitutional and legal provisions ensure checks and balances among these branches.
- Rule of Law: Governance is conducted by adhering to the law, making compliance with and implementation of the law a critical aspect.
- Multi-Stakeholder Coordination and Multifaceted Relationships: A key aspect of governance is coordination and harmonious relationships with national and international actors outside the state, fostering collaboration.
- Visionary Approach: Governance not only manages the state but also determines its direction, adopting a visionary approach. Additionally, aspects such as public service delivery, social responsibility, democracy, good governance, peace, and security are fundamental to governance.
Characteristics of Governance
The main characteristics of governance or the governance system can be outlined as follows:
- Governance is conducted through the government and its organs, which are legitimate and dynamic entities exercising state authority.
- It is practiced cautiously by sovereign citizen representatives, prioritizing citizen supremacy and public welfare.
- Governance is a continuous process that persists alongside the existence of the state.
- It serves as the living brain, soul, and leadership of the state system.
- Governance is a multidimensional subject involving multiple sectors, actors, and disciplines, with diverse objectives and expectations.
- The scope of governance is tied to the state’s territory, jurisdiction, and authority.
Thus, governance is a system characterized by the qualities of the government, the ideals of the state, and the style of exercising state authority, underpinned by the fundamental aspects and characteristics described above.
