In his opinion piece titled 'La transparence, tΓ©moin sans voix,' economist Michel Santi critiques the current state of transparency in financial and governmental systems. He argues that while transparency is often touted as a solution to corruption and inefficiency, it frequently fails to lead to accountability or action, remaining a 'silent witness' to ongoing issues.
Santi points to examples from international finance, where disclosure requirements exist but are not enforced, allowing opaque practices to persist. He suggests that without robust oversight and consequences, transparency becomes a mere formality rather than a tool for change.
The article calls for a redefinition of transparency, emphasizing the need for active enforcement and public engagement to ensure that information leads to meaningful reform. Santi's analysis is based on his experience as a former banker and financial regulator.