Papua New Guinea is one of 115 countries in the world that participates in the Open Budget Survey.
Biannually it is assessed by independent observers on whether there is a free flow of information, effective oversight and opportunities for the public to participate in the National Budget Process.
Today, the 2016-2017 Open Budget Survey Report and Index was launched.
Since Papua New Guinea’s membership in 2006, its Open Budget Index Score has remained in the halfway mark, ranging in the 50s out of a 100.
For the 2017 Budget, International Budget Partnership, the body that is heading the survey, has ranked PNG 50 out of 100 in relation to budget information available to the wider public.
This means, according to IBP, PNG has provided limited budget information to the public.
The OPEN Budget Survey revealed that PNG’s score 50/100 was the same since 2015 where PNG has decreased public information to the public and that it has failed to publish pre-budget statement in a timely manner. Moreover, it has failed to make progress in; producing In- Year Reports, Audit Report or a citizen Budget.
While accepting the 2017 OBI report, Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer, Charles Abel, says budget accountability is important and the government must make sure budget information must be available to the people as the money belongs to the people.
Deputy Prime Minister Abel said the year 2017 was disturbed by the National General Elections and other related National Events, the Government of Papua New Guinea will make attempts to take note of the recommendations given by the Open Budget Report.
