Changing the Game: A critical analysis of accountability in Mega Sport Event infrastructure delivery

Changing the game: A critical analysis of accountability in Mega Sport Event infrastructure delivery

The final instalment of the EAP Insights: Changing the Game research series explores the issue of accountability in the delivery of Mega Sport Event (MSE) infrastructure projects. Increasing accountability is a key means of improving the governance of these events and addressing the issues of labour rights and corruption which the Changing the Game series previously discussed.

This paper explores the meaning of accountability as an overarching value to improve the governance of MSEs and the delivery of related infrastructure. We highlight the challenges of establishing accountability mechanisms, explore the consequences that a lack of accountability can generate in addition to corruption and labour exploitation, and discuss how channels of civic engagement can help close the accountability gap. We also present recommendations that we believe are key to overcoming these challenges. including spaces for multi-stakeholder dialogue and the application of access to information laws.