Social Control Mechanisms for Greater Transparency and Accountability

1. International ConferencePublic Financial Management in the Era of “The New Normal”Social Control Mechanisms for Greater Transparency and Accountability VarazdatKarapetyan, PhD Armenia GCCI, Advocacy and Assistance Center

2. Illustrative Case of Corruption A visitor of AAC told his story: “My daughter was born five months ago. She was born prematurely, in her seventh month, and was very weak. The doctor worked hard to successfully improve her strength. Now each time we visit him for a consultation, his assistant requests 50 USD. I give him the money, although according to health care legislation in Armenia, medical care is absolutely free for children under seven years old.”

4. He does not want to fight for his rights because he wants to have good relations with the doctor.

5. The same situation exists in the fields of health, education, justice, state cadastre, taxation etc.How can we solve this problem?

6. Systemic Analysis of the Case

8. Dialogue and cooperation between all stakeholders and parties of the cycle: doctors, hospital administrations, government, citizens, etc.

10. Creates public-private dialogue and cooperation.

11. Supports systemic reforms through quick responsive actions and advocacy work.

13. The Tax Office heavily fined 10 businesses. All other businesses faced corruption risk and tax officials started to extort them.

15. The Tax Office held seminars to explain tax changes in a more easily understandable language for business owners.

17. Officials take advantage of their lack of information and extort startup businesses.AAC’s response: - Gegharkunik AAC installed informational bulletin boards in all 5 state registration offices of the region.

19. A second medical examination was carried out in the capital.In the result: Re-establishment of the right to receive the pension, and repayment of the amount that had not been paid.

21. Filed an appeal against the traffic police actions before the National Police. Results: The fine was annulled, and the visitor’s rights were protected.

22. Thank you for your time and attention! Questions are welcome…