State-Society Synergy for Accountability is part of the World Bank Working Paper series. These papers are published to communicate the results of the Bank's ongoing research and to stimulate public discussion. Despite the influence of globalization and market liberalization, the institutional, technical, administrative and political capacities of the state remain as important as they have ever been. Good governance continues to be a prerequisite for successful economic growth in the developing world and should be on the agenda of all states. This paper explores mechanisms to promote good governance by institutionalizing an accountability structure that holds public officials responsible for their actions as public servants. It presents examples of effective state-society partnerships in public service delivery and management, and provides development practitioners with lessons on how to initiate and successfully implement social accountability mechanisms in order to strengthen democratic institutions. World Bank Working Papers are available individually or by subscription, both in print and on-line.