The OECD Reinforcing Democracy Initiative

OECD Reinforcing Democracy Initiative: Monitoring Report – Assessing Progress and Charting the Way Forward

Foreword

Democracies are facing significant internal and external pressures, including political polarization, the spread of disinformation, and the rise of populism. To preserve and strengthen democracies, governments must take proactive measures to build trust in public institutions and better serve their people. This report, titled "The OECD Reinforcing Democracy Initiative: Monitoring Report – Assessing Progress and Charting the Way Forward," responds to a call from OECD Ministers at the November 2022 meeting of the OECD Public Governance Committee. The report maps progress against five key pillars of the initiative, focusing on combating mis- and disinformation, enhancing participation and representation, and governing green.

Executive Summary

This report provides a comprehensive overview of the progress made by OECD member countries in addressing the challenges facing democracies. It highlights concrete examples of practices adopted by countries to engage better with citizens, strengthen capacity to address complex policy challenges, steer the green transition, and address gender gaps. The report also addresses frontier issues such as building effective digital democracy and strengthening information integrity.

Key Pillars of the Initiative

1. Public Governance for Combating Mis- and Disinformation

   • Key Area 1: Implementing government policies to build more resilient societies against mis- and disinformation.
   • Key Area 2: Supporting the design of policy and regulatory measures to increase transparency and data sharing to prevent the spread of mis- and disinformation.
   • Key Area 3: Identifying regulatory and policy responses that reduce economic and structural drivers of mis- and disinformation.
   • Working Collectively Through the OECD: The report outlines collective efforts and sets priorities for the future.

2. Enhancing Representation, Participation, and Openness in Public Life

   • The report discusses various initiatives aimed at enhancing citizen engagement and improving the transparency and openness of public life.

3. Governing Green

   • The report examines strategies and actions taken by countries to steer the green transition and promote sustainability.

4. Gender Equality

   • The report includes an annex on gender equality, highlighting efforts to address gender gaps and promote equality.

5. Stronger Open Democracies in a Globalized World

   • The report explores measures to strengthen open democracies in a global context, including digital democracy.

Acknowledgements

The report acknowledges the contributions of numerous individuals and organizations, including the OECD Directorate for Public Governance, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), and various delegates from the OECD Public Governance Committee.

References

Detailed references are provided for further reading and verification.

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This summary captures the main themes and key areas addressed in the report, providing a clear and concise overview of the progress and future directions of the OECD's Reinforcing Democracy Initiative.