The diversity in governance practices around the world is a reflection of differences in the political, social, economic and cultural histories of countries. There is common recognition, however, that good governance is aimed at delivering what is mandated and ensuring that what is delivered is responsive to the evolving needs of the individual and society. Improved education and new technologies have increased the expectations of the public for accountable and transparent administration, including constant improvements in the delivery and performance of social services.
Good governance is an important objective for social security organizations and a key principle of the ISSA. The first version of the ISSA Guidelines on Good Governance was launched at the World Social Security Forum in Cape Town in December 2010. An expanded second version was launched at the World Social Security Forum in Doha in November 2013. The updated third version was launched at the World Social Security Forum in Brussels in October 2019.
The guidelines begin by defining what the ISSA means by “good governance”. The governance framework that underpins the guidelines aims to give the user an overview of the range of internal governance issues involved in social security administration.
The ISSA Guidelines on Good Governance seeks to provide ISSA member organizations with guiding principles and practical guidance on good governance. It presents a virtual checklist of the essential elements which would help engender and support good governance within the institution. Suggestions are given on how to apply each guideline by describing governance structures and mechanisms that would facilitate its use.