ICDG seeks to build the governance capacity of emerging democracies, emphasizing the development of participatory, responsive, transparent, and efficient governments. It aims to strengthen the management of public organizations to create open governments characterized by reliance on the rule of law and an active, educated citizenry. ICDG is committed to sustainable government reforms that have long-term impact and create systemic change.

[Faculty and Staff]

WE BELIEVE that for governments to best serve their citizens, they need

• informed, competent, and honest officials, managers, and employees;
• the tax base of a healthy economy; and
• the participation of engaged citizens working together to improve their lives and communities.

FURTHERMORE, WE BELIEVE that well-functioning local governments are especially vital to the well-being of citizens because they are

• accessible to citizens, individually and in civic groups;
• more directly responsive and accountable to citizens; and
• providers of services essential for a healthy and comfortable life.

THEREFORE, WE assist in strengthening governments—especially local governments—in emerging democracies by

• training public officials and managers;
• helping governments work with businesses and citizens to strengthen their economies;
• working with universities that are educating future government public administrators and training present ones;
• advising citizen groups and NGOs that seek to participate in policy making, economy building, and community development; and
• encouraging governments to work closely with citizens and businesses to develop their economies, improve quality of life, and address important policy problems.

This assistance is provided by International Center faculty members working cooperatively with faculty members of the Carl Vinson Institute of Government and other University of Georgia departments, as well as with partners from throughout the state. We draw on the best people and resources that Georgia’s public and private sectors have to offer.

With our network, we work with partner institutions in new and emerging democracies. Through these alliances, our partners contribute what they know best, and they learn from each other.

THE GOAL OF OUR WORK is to better the lives of citizens in developing democracies by improving

• government management;
• policy making, especially for policies related to sustainable development and environmental management;
• government responsiveness to citizen and groups that participate in communities and local government; and
• government-business-citizen interaction that helps to develop local economies and supports sustainable development.