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Good governance in age of information

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-01-27 07:58

Our country's leaders have always dreamed of achieving good governance, and the age of information has given a new meaning to this simple phrase, says an article on People Net. Excerpts:

"Good governance and harmonious life for the people." The ancient scholar who coined this phrase might not have thought that rulers and leaders down the ages would try to follow his motto in letter and spirit.

The information age has now given a new meaning to the ancient motto. Thanks to the Internet thorough interaction between governments and citizens is no longer a dream. The rapidly developing networks have made it easier for governments to hear the voices of the people from every corner of the country.

Three factors are important for governments to better hear the voices and redress the grievances of the people.

First, governments have to build an obstacle-free channel connecting the people and officials. Only then can they hear and understand each other well.

Second, they have to train officials to have an open and progressive mind. Also, governments should accept and highlight the importance of the Internet networks as an emerging media for the people to express their views on and concerns over politics.

The last but not the least important factor is the responsibility of citizens. They should use the networks conscientiously to air their views and grievances, and thus contribute to the development of society as a whole.

Good governance is not possible without proper interaction between the officials and the people. And only their joint efforts can help the country build a harmonious society.

(China Daily 01/27/2010 page9)