"La gouvernance consiste à répondre aux besoins des gens"

Governance, at its core, is all about meeting the needs of the people. Sounds simple, right? But think about it—what does it really mean for those in power? It’s not just about holding a position but about making sure that the lives of the people under their care improve. It’s about understanding what people need and then delivering on those needs in a way that makes a tangible difference in their daily lives.

Let’s rewind a bit and get some historical context. This idea isn’t new. In ancient times, leaders were often judged by how well they could provide for their people. Think of a medieval king: if he couldn’t protect his kingdom from invaders or ensure a good harvest, his reign would likely end in turmoil. Fast forward to modern times, and the concept hasn’t changed much—it’s just taken different shapes. Today, good governance is about public services, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and more. It’s about making sure that the policies and systems in place work for everyone, not just a select few.

Take the example of Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she showed what it means to govern with the people’s needs at the forefront. Her government implemented strict lockdowns early on, communicated clearly and empathetically with the public, and provided financial support to those affected by the lockdowns. The result? New Zealand managed to keep its COVID-19 cases relatively low and protect its public health system from being overwhelmed. This is a prime example of governance that truly prioritizes the people’s needs.

So, how can this wisdom be applied in our daily lives? First, it’s about listening. Whether you’re a manager at a company or a parent at home, understand what the people around you need. Take time to ask questions and really listen to their responses. Second, it’s about action. It’s not enough to just hear what people need—you’ve got to do something about it. Implement changes, offer help, or adjust your approach based on the feedback you receive.

Imagine if you’re running a small business. Your team is working hard, but you notice that morale is low. You decide to hold a meeting and ask everyone what they need to feel more supported. Some ask for more flexible working hours, others for better tools to do their job. You take this feedback seriously and make the necessary changes. A few weeks later, you notice a significant improvement in team morale and productivity. This is governance in a microcosm—listening, acting, and fulfilling needs.

To make it more relatable, think about a parent-child relationship. A good parent doesn’t just impose rules—they understand what their children need to thrive. They create an environment where the child feels safe, loved, and supported. They listen to their child’s concerns, help them with their homework, and make sure they have time to play. This is the essence of governance—meeting needs in a way that empowers and supports.

In essence, whether you’re leading a country, a team, or a family, the principle remains the same: understand the needs of those you’re responsible for and take actions to meet those needs. It’s about making life better for others, which, let’s face it, is the real measure of good governance.