'Local governance under pressure: integrity remains a challenge', according to Toon Kerkhoff
Integrity in (local) governance is more relevant than ever. Good governance, with integrity as a cornerstone, operates within a tension where public values and various interests may conflict. Toon Kerkhoff, Associate Professor and researcher, notes: 'For leaders, it is crucial to carefully balance interests to govern effectively.'
What is good governance and how did that change?
Kerkhoff focuses his research on the history of corruption and integrity*.
'What is considered integrity evolves over time. Fifteen years ago, certain actions that are now deemed unacceptable went unquestioned,' Kerkhoff explains. Public values are constantly shifting, and there is an increasing demand for transparency; behaviours are under closer scrutiny than ever. Additionally, integrity is defined differently by various stakeholders. Kerkhoff elaborates: 'Citizens view integrity differently from policymakers, which can create friction. What is legally correct may not always feel just to citizens, such as the handling of expense claims or instances of perceived conflicts of interest.'
Transparency: A demand from citizens or leaders?
'Both,' Kerkhoff says, 'but primarily, citizens seek more transparency.' Citizens increasingly demand involvement and information about decisions and finances, leading to a tension: greater openness often invites more questions. Kerkhoff notes that this can hinder the efficiency of leaders, such as through extended consultation procedures. 'Yet, citizens must be heard in policymaking, even if it complicates decision-making,' he argues. The challenge lies in determining where, when, how, and by whom participation is organised to ensure it remains both effective and efficient. Over the past decade, Kerkhoff has observed significant growth in citizen participation. 'Transparency and openness are crucial public values but bring challenges. Engaging citizens can lead to delays or governance issues,' he explains. To address this, he advises that leaders ask targeted questions and involve citizens at the right stages in the process to maintain effectiveness.
What is good governance according to you?
'Good governance is about balancing sometimes opposing values and interests while ensuring that you are clear and open about the choices you make. It is also important to be proactive. In times of crisis, clear plans should be in place to act effectively, so you don’t end up reacting too late. Mayors, clerks, aldermen, council members, and civil servants can still achieve a lot here; more collaboration and conversations 'in peacetime' offer the opportunity to be better prepared and to learn from each other. This is addressed in the course on local politics.’
Integrity at local government level: how is it doing?
Local governments face relatively more integrity issues, according to the report section 'Quo Vadis?' integrity in governance organisations (Dutch).
'Integrity issues continuously arise at the local level, which is logical,' Kerkhoff says. 'Local government is the largest administrative layer in the Netherlands and is closer to the citizen, making it easier for interests to become entangled. For example, a city councillor responsible for sports may hold a secondary position that could conflict with their duties, such as at a football club. Citizens immediately see the influence of such positions. These risks are greater at the local level due to the involvement of the government in the community.' Integrity questions arise between political parties, civil servants, and aldermen, as well as between municipal council members and executives. 'By continuing the conversation about integrity, you remain vigilant and prevent larger problems.'
How can integrity be ensured through conversation?
Existing knowledge can be better utilized to ensure and strengthen integrity. There's no need to reinvent the wheel. Moral craftsmanship is essential and can be enhanced with existing resources, Kerkhoff explains. 'Moral craftsmanship answers the question: how do leaders handle difficult choices responsibly? If leaders learn to better address issues where this plays a role, particularly in ethical dilemmas, integrity can be better ensured.
Tekst: Margo Klein