474 Accountability through Public Opinion
On the demand side, the important mechanisms are the following: 1. Development of networks, both formal and informal, to enable effective and strategic information-sharing mechanisms that boost civil society capacity to generate evidence-based research. 2. Strategic use of the media, as well as creative, interactive, visually based content to promote citizen interest and activism. In India, a film on Gandhi revived strong, deeply held values and raised awareness and inspired civic activism, especially among the youth. Context and translation are important. Without translation, it is hard to encourage civic engagement. Session Two: Gaining Official Support in Using Social Accountability Tools While some participants emphasized that not all SA mechanisms require official support (or permission), broad recognition was seen of the importance of the state’s positive posture toward SA objectives. It opens up avenues for the state to listen, to acknowledge their public responsibilities, and to respond to citizens’ demand for action. The ability to gain official support places the burden on civil society, on their willingness and capacity to engage with government, to negotiate change, and to manage conflict under adversarial conditions. The participants highlighted two key elements that can bolster civil society efforts in gaining official support for SA. First is the importance of strategic positioning. This involves an examination of the posture and attitude of CSOs, as well as the manner in which they choose to engage along a continuum ranging from an adversarial to a cooperative role. What position or posture will result in a favorable outcome? In addition, the willingness and capacity of CSOs to form broader coalitions with other organizations (religious, trade unions, and the like) can help amplify their voice and strengthen collective efforts in demanding response from the government. Taking on a collaborative approach should also include seeking allies and champions within government, recognizing that it is not a monolithic institution. CSOs also need to gain a better understanding of the role of oversight institutions (such as ombudsmen and the judiciary) in SA. They can identify ways to mobilize support of the political, legal, and judicial systems, particularly in implementing and enforcing sanctions needed to strengthen the impact of SA mechanisms. Strong advocacy efforts and strategic use of the media should underpin SA initiatives to keep issues alive, maintain citizen interest, and sustain reform momentum. The second important ingredient is the credibility of CSOs. Credibility builds trust and confidence and is central to developing strong partnerships. It establishes the foundation for openness and willingness on the part of government to listen and respond to civil society initiatives needing state support. Collaboration between the state and civil society is a two-way street that demands accountability and transparency from both parties. In mobilizing