How does the Human Development Index (HDI) account for governance?

The Human Development Index (HDI) does not directly account for governance. The HDI is a composite index that measures the average achievements in three basic dimensions of human development: a long and healthy life, access to knowledge, and a decent standard of living. It primarily focuses on indicators such as life expectancy, education, and income.

However, while the HDI does not explicitly include governance indicators, it indirectly reflects the impact of governance on human development. Good governance, characterized by transparency, accountability, and effective institutions, can contribute to better outcomes in health, education, and income, which are key components of the HDI.

For instance, a well-governed country is more likely to have efficient healthcare systems, ensuring longer life expectancy. Similarly, effective governance can lead to improved access to quality education, resulting in higher literacy rates and increased knowledge. Additionally, good governance can promote economic growth, reduce income inequality, and provide opportunities for a decent standard of living.

Therefore, although the HDI does not directly measure governance, it recognizes the importance of governance in shaping human development outcomes. Countries with strong governance structures are more likely to perform well on the HDI, indicating a positive relationship between governance and human development.