Strengthening parliamentary budget oversight in West Africa: an opportunity for financial transparency

The thesis by Mesnil Toni, defended at the Université Jean Moulin - Lyon 3 in 2015, shows that strengthening parliament's role in budget oversight in West Africa could significantly improve financial transparency and accountability. This research, conducted in collaboration with the Université d'Abomey Calavi, underscores the importance of more thorough parliamentary deliberation on budget priorities.

Budget authorization is essential to public finance management in West Africa, but parliament faces constraints that limit its role. The executive's autonomy to adjust the budget without returning to parliament raises questions about the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight. This research examines how parliament can move toward more active deliberation on budget choices.

By analyzing parliamentary dynamics, the thesis shows that West Africa's parliament is seeking to strengthen its oversight of budget execution. Although precise figures are not available, the study highlights the importance of reviewing budget execution reports to improve transparency and financial accountability.

For decision-makers, strengthening parliamentary oversight represents a strategic opportunity to improve public finance management. Investors can capitalize on this dynamic by supporting legislative reforms, which could lead to more efficient resource allocation and boost economic growth in West Africa.

« "Strengthening parliament's role in budget oversight is essential to ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of public resources," says Mesnil Toni. »

« "This research highlights the importance of access to knowledge for decision-makers, in order to foster initiatives that improve financial governance in West Africa," notes the Lektaris team. »