Public finance decisions must be closely linked to the daily lives of citizens through ongoing dialogue and adjustments. Abduvakkos Abdurahmanov, the Deputy Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), emphasized the importance of an inclusive approach in his remarks to participants of the Vaka Pasifika Project in Suva, Fiji. He stated that budget choices are fundamental in shaping everyday experiences for people.
According to Abdurahmanov, governments must find improved methods to synchronize their plans, budgets, and delivery mechanisms for genuine impact. This alignment requires continuous conversations among policymakers, budget managers, and the communities they serve. He highlighted the significant role that civil society plays in providing feedback and monitoring outcomes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, civil society organizations adapted support for vulnerable groups, including informal women workers, demonstrating the necessity of such engagement.
Abdurahmanov noted that communities have actively monitored infrastructure projects and identified gaps in service delivery. The use of digital and social media platforms has facilitated live public engagement on budgetrelated issues, fostering a real-time feedback loop that enhances responsiveness and accountability.
In addressing risk management within budgeting, he pointed out that Fiji must manage risks transparently to maintain investments and partnerships, particularly in the face of climate and economic challenges. The focus is on strengthening risk management practices rather than attempting to eliminate risks entirely. By aligning planning, budgeting, borrowing, and external financing, risks can be made clearer and more manageable.
Transparent processes, he argued, help build investor confidence and sustain collaboration commitments, while effective risk management is essential for achieving long-term fiscal stability and development goals. Fiji stands out in the region for making budget data more accessible and for actively engaging the public through digital governance initiatives. These efforts enhance transparency and trust, aligning with the country’s Vision 2050, which emphasizes accountable governance.
Digitalization in Fiji goes beyond mere data publication; it aims to make information user-friendly and accessible. This approach resonates with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy aimed at fostering secure and inclusive digital connections. Ongoing engagement remains vital, highlighting that success is a continuous journey rather than a definitive endpoint. The European Union and partners such as PIANGO and FCOSS are crucial in supporting this endeavor, as Fiji prioritizes the integration of policy, finance, and measurable outcomes to drive progress.
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