Public procurement is supposed to provide for citizens’ needs, and therefore must be accountable to the public. Article 9 of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption requires that all 183 state parties develop public procurement systems that are transparent, competitive, and objective in awarding contracts.
Access to information is key to this accountability. Access to information on public procurement allows civil society to act as an effective watchdog on government systems, making recommendations for change and bringing this crucial area where public and private sectors meet under better public scrutiny.
This briefing outlines how states can improve procurement through information and engagement and gives recommended steps to implement.