Open Gov Hub's 2022 Programmatic Themes
This year, based on a co-creative consultation with our Members, we will be focusing our events and programs on three themes:
#1 INSTITUTIONAL INTEGRITY
Our world faces compounded, intertwined, systemic issues - this is why we need institutional integrity. The climate crisis, the COVID pandemic, democratic backsliding, corrupt and kleptocratic regimes, strapped healthcare and education, and inadequate social safety nets undermine our resilience, undercut human development, and threaten democracy. While accountable and responsive governments are a big part of the answer, we also need the cooperation of all sectors to succeed in this endeavor – especially funders - working towards a holistic integrity of all institutions. Nevertheless, shifting power dynamics and mental models towards systems change is a complex undertaking. Open Gov Hub’s events and programs tied to this theme will aim to address these challenges by seeking collaborative solutions that zero in on institutional integrity.
#2 PEOPLE POWER
We recognize going beyond empowerment by putting the power directly in the hands of the people. Locally led approaches, social movements, and strengthening the civic space are a visible part of the global effort to decolonize development and amplify voices of marginalized communities. On the national and local levels, attention to anti-racism, equity, diversity, and inclusion cannot be compromised if we are serious about social justice around the globe. Open Gov Hub’s events and programs tied to this theme will highlight how collective action of civil society actors makes a difference in our society.
#3 SMARTER DATA
While open data and civic tech can improve lives, how information is used matters – especially when it comes to issues such as misinformation, open ownership, and journalistic freedom. Simply put, information matters. How we use it, share it, and change determines if information helps, harms, or delays progress. Responsible data and tech use is tied to how local, national, and international actors govern and interact with citizens. Access to information needs to be easy and practical for citizens to have a voice in shaping policy agendas in ways that foster a participatory democratic process, enable civic tech, and protect civic space. Open Gov Hub’s events and programs tied to this theme will delve deeper into this subject of what it means to use data responsibly.
Stay tuned for events around these subjects here, with the next one coming up on 2/8/22 around themes 2 & 3 — a BBL on tech & justice with Horizontal.
