Governance is one of CALID’s core thematic areas, rooted in the belief that sustainable development cannot be achieved without transparent, accountable, and inclusive systems of leadership. Our work focuses on promoting democratic values, strengthening civic participation, and ensuring that governance structures serve the needs of all community members, especially the marginalized.

Central to this thematic area is the active promotion of good governance principles, including transparency, accountability, fairness, and responsiveness. CALID recognizes that when governance systems function effectively, they create an enabling environment where rights are protected, resources are managed equitably, and development outcomes are more positive and lasting.

A major aspect of our work involves fostering the representation and participation of youth in decision-making and leadership. Young people make up a significant portion of the population, yet their voices are often underrepresented in political and governance spaces. CALID seeks to close this gap by providing platforms, capacity-building, and mentorship opportunities that empower youth to contribute meaningfully to public decision-making.

We believe that building the leadership capacity of young people is essential for shaping the future of communities. Through training in civic responsibility, leadership skills, advocacy, and policy engagement, CALID equips youth with the confidence and competence to participate in governance processes at local, regional, and national levels.

Good governance is also closely linked to the eradication of poverty. When leaders are accountable and institutions operate transparently, public resources are managed more efficiently, corruption is reduced, and social services reach those who need them most. CALID’s governance interventions therefore remain a critical tool in addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality.

In addition to promoting youth representation, CALID advocates for the inclusion of women, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups in governance systems. Inclusive governance ensures that policies and decisions reflect diverse perspectives and that no group is left behind in the development process.

Human rights promotion is another integral part of our governance work. CALID raises awareness on civic rights and responsibilities, educates communities on democratic processes, and advocates for systems that protect individuals from injustice and discrimination. Empowering citizens with knowledge strengthens their ability to demand accountability from leaders.

Globally, there is a growing call for democracy as communities around the world push back against oppressive regimes, corruption, and unaccountable leadership. CALID aligns with this global movement by promoting democratic values and supporting community-led initiatives that advocate for justice, fairness, and responsible governance.

The governance challenges faced in many communities—including weak institutions, limited civic engagement, and inadequate accountability mechanisms—require persistent and coordinated interventions. CALID collaborates with local authorities, civil society organizations, and community groups to strengthen governance systems and promote participatory decision-making.

Ultimately, our work in Governance aims to build societies where leadership is responsible, citizens are empowered, and institutions operate with integrity. By promoting transparency, accountability, and active participation, CALID contributes to creating a democratic environment where human rights are upheld, development is inclusive, and all individuals have a stake in shaping their own future.