The Role of Inspectors General in Promoting Government Accountability

Catalog description

Inspectors general are some of the most important government officials you have never heard of. They seek to detect and deter waste, fraud, and abuse in government operations, and improve their efficiency and effectiveness. They provide an independent check on government and hold powerful government officials accountable. This seminar will explore the crucial oversight role and responsibilities of inspectors general and other government oversight entities. Students will examine the history of inspectors general, their responsibilities, their legal authorities, their relationships with their agencies and other government oversight entities, and the need to strengthen and reform our system of government oversight. Students will also discuss whether the federal judiciary needs an inspector general. In the winter quarter, the seminar will meet on Wednesdays from 4:15 to 6:15. The first hour of most sessions will involve a discussion of the week's topic. In the second hour, students will often hear from a speaker, including current and former inspectors general and leaders of oversight organizations, about the issues they faced as well as the satisfactions and challenges of public service. Most speakers will participate remotely. Students will be expected to submit questions for the speaker in advance, based on the week's reading, and students will have an opportunity to ask the speaker their questions or other questions. Elements used in grading include attendance and class participation, questions submitted for the speaker, and a final paper.