Blog

Introduction

In a world where political, economic, and environmental challenges continue to grow, it is crucial to rethink how we choose our leaders. Too often, elected officials lack the skills and integrity necessary to ensure a stable and prosperous future. Political scandals, unfulfilled promises, and the absence of long-term vision have led to growing distrust among citizens toward their governments. However, effective and fair politics is the key to a harmonious and developing society.

It is therefore essential to establish rigorous selection criteria to ensure that those in charge of governing are truly qualified, responsible, and committed to the public good. This reflection proposes fundamental principles for governance based on competence, experience, integrity, and ethics.

1. Competence in Line with Responsibilities

Too often, politicians reach high positions without possessing the necessary skills to perform their duties effectively. Governing a country should not be a matter of personal ambition but a commitment based on real expertise in management, diplomacy, and public administration. As Aristotle stated: “The goal of politics is to achieve the common good.”

A solid education in political science, economics, or public administration should be a prerequisite for any candidate. Additionally, internships and immersions in public institutions could allow future leaders to better understand administrative and societal realities before making major decisions.

2. An Exemplary Criminal Record

Public representatives must be models of integrity. Therefore, obtaining a certificate of good conduct should be mandatory for anyone seeking an electoral mandate. No ongoing legal proceedings should be tolerated to ensure governance free from conflicts of interest and corruption.

This measure would ensure that only honest and law-abiding individuals can access high office. As Cicero said: “The prosperity of a state rests on the integrity of its leaders.”

3. A Personality Assessment Before Candidacy

Before any candidacy, an in-depth personality assessment should be conducted to evaluate the integrity, ethics, and moral compass of future leaders. As Montesquieu stated: “To prevent the abuse of power, power must be checked by power.”

An independent committee composed of psychologists, sociologists, and governance experts could conduct interviews and assessments to ensure that candidates have a strong sense of justice, duty, and public service.

4. Required Professional Experience

Exercising power requires a certain level of maturity and prior experience. Thus, setting the minimum age for candidates at 30 years, along with significant professional experience, would be a wise requirement. This measure would ensure that elected officials understand the working world and economic realities before assuming decision-making roles. Similarly, the maximum age for governance should be set at 65 years, ensuring that leaders remain in full physical and intellectual capacity.

This rule would encourage access to more competent and pragmatic leaders who can understand daily challenges and implement effective policies.

5. Politicians as Skilled Managers

Politics should not be a playground for amateurs but a space for responsible management of public affairs. Having politicians skilled in management would ensure sustainable economic development and budgetary stability. As Winston Churchill emphasized: “To govern is to foresee.”

It is essential for leaders to understand budgetary balance, strategic planning, and sustainable development to avoid preventable economic crises and unsustainable debt burdens for future generations.

6. Diplomacy in the Service of Peace

A good politician must be a skilled diplomat, capable of promoting peace rather than sowing discord. The goal of any leader should be negotiation and cooperation, avoiding unnecessary conflicts and displays of force. “Peace is the only battle worth fighting,” said Albert Camus.

Leaders must focus on peaceful solutions to conflicts and foster dialogue between nations instead of encouraging military confrontation and aggressive policies. Moreover, they must not advocate violence in any form—whether in their speeches or actions. Appropriate language and behavior should be a requirement to set an example and embody respectful and dignified politics.

7. Prioritizing the Public Interest Over Personal Gain

Power should not be a means of personal enrichment or a tool to eliminate political opponents. A true leader works for the welfare of the people and the longevity of the nation, ensuring political, economic, and social stability. “With great power comes great responsibility,” Voltaire reminded us.

Strict financial controls on elected officials, along with total transparency regarding their income and assets, should be implemented to prevent abuses and conflicts of interest. Furthermore, politicians must be subject to immediate dismissal if a significant issue arises concerning them, ensuring accountability and governance with integrity.

8. A Green Policy for a Sustainable Future

21st-century leaders must be committed to a greener planet. Environmental preservation is a major issue requiring strong and long-term political decisions. The ecological transition must be at the core of government priorities to ensure a viable future for future generations.

It is urgent to promote policies that encourage renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and protect natural resources. “We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children,” said Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Conclusion

Reforming politics by demanding more competence, ethics, and commitment to the public good is essential to ensuring stable and virtuous governance. It is time to elect capable, responsible leaders who are focused on the future. As John F. Kennedy once said: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”

By applying these principles, we can build a more just, effective political system that truly serves the collective interest.

 

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