About the Event

Imagine a country where decisions are honestly made, transparent and accountable, where outcomes cannot be bought or manipulated and where policy-making processes enhance democratic participation and connection.

This all day conference organised by the Open Government Network will explore:

• Freedom of information, accountability and the public’s right to know. Would more open government have prevented RHI, SIF and NAMA?
• Democratic Ownership. Is democracy being subverted by dark money - the undisclosed funding of organisations involved in public advocacy?
• Anti-corruption. Will improving transparency around beneficial ownership help prevent tax evasion, money laundering and corruption?
• Environmental protection. As climate change threatens the very existence of life on earth, how can the UK contribute to efforts to avoid global disaster?
• Making power responsive to citizens’ hopes and needs. What’s the future for open government and democracy?

Contributors will include:

• Mandy McAuley, BBC NI Spotlight
• Peter Geoghegan, OpenDemocracy
• Alex Cobham, Tax Justice Network
• Robin Hodess, Transparency International
• Peter Osborne, Community Relations Council (Chair)

Morning refreshments and lunch will be provided.