Local and national governments are key players in infrastructure accountability, participation and transparency. Their full cooperation in the programme is essential. They have overall responsibility for identifying and delivering infrastructure projects and play a lead role in the publication of project data.

Our members and IS work closely with procuring entities to build a more reputable and efficient sector. The four pronged approach of CoST give governments the opportunity to:

• Demonstrate their commitment to high levels of infrastructure transparency
• Build public participation and confidence in the procurement process 
• Show their cooperation with the private sector and civil society for public benefit
• Improve procedures that strengthen infrastructure project management 
• Save public money and fund better quality infrastructure to improve lives 

We work with governments who recognise the full benefits of our approach and who play a part in enabling their region to become members. They can also help to establish legal mandates on publication of data, and their incorporation into relevant regulations and government procedures.

MSGs and member managers keep elected or appointed officials – ministers, senior civil servants or council leaders – briefed on how CoST membership within their region is driving infrastructure transparency, participation and accountability.

Our liaison with officials begins from the very start, working with key advocates in government from the preparatory stages, through to joining CoST, and during their membership. This ensures that politicians and officials support our approach from the outset and are more likely to push legal and policy reforms forward.

Building capacity across government 

Once CoST is established, procuring entities and government officials undertake training on implementing multi-stakeholder working; publication and independent review of data and social accountability. This is crucial to the programme’s success. Read about some of our achievements in government through our impact stories and member pages. 

If you’re interested in joining or working with CoST, find out more on our partner with us page.