Definition of transparency

The word "transparency" originated in the late 19th century from the Latin root "trans," meaning "through" or "across," and "parens," meaning "to bear" or "to bring forth." In its original sense, transparency referred to the visual quality of certain materials, such as glass or water, that allowed light to pass through easily without scattering or distorting it. This physical attribute was applied in a figurative sense to describe ideas and actions that were clear, honest, and straightforward, as opposed to those that were opaque, secretive, or misleading. The term gained a broader political meaning in the 20th century, as governments and organizations began to recognize the significance of communicating openness and accountability to their constituencies. Transparency in governance, finance, and business became a key element of democratic values, good governance, and corporate responsibility, promoting trust, fairness, and social welfare. The concept is widely reflected in international guidelines, such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the OECD Principles of Corporate Governance, that encourage transparency and disclosure as essential components of integrity and compliance.