What is Oversight?

Definition and meaning of oversight: Oversight is the action of overseeing, or the power to do so. It refers to the ability to oversee the activities of a certain organization or institution, with the primary goal of ensuring that they are conducted in a responsible and accountable manner. Oversight is typically carried out by a third party, such as an independent commission, with the purpose of providing an external review of practices and policies. In this way, oversight can help to identify issues and areas in need of improvement, while creating an environment in which those responsible are held to account. Examples of oversight can range from monitoring the activities of a public agency to ensuring that a private company is adhering to its contractual obligations. Oversight is most often framed in a positive light, as a way to ensure that those in positions of power are held accountable for their actions. This is especially important in democratic societies, where citizens must have trust and confidence in their government officials. Oversight is also a key part of any effort to promote transparency and accountability, as it ensures that the public has access to information about the activities of those in power.