Background and Objective:
In recent years, the growing demands of citizens for transparency and accountability have drawn the attention of researchers and policymakers to the quality of the policymaking process in public organizations. One of the key dimensions of this quality is the extent to which decisions are based on rationality and evidence, which can enhance accountability regarding the outcomes and consequences of policies. Accordingly, the present study aims to evaluate the effect of rationality in policymaking on accountability in governmental organizations of East Azerbaijan Province.
Methodology: In terms of nature and content, this study is descriptive-survey and, in terms of purpose, is an applied research. The statistical population includes the employees of governmental organizations in East Azerbaijan Province, totaling 2,800 people. Based on Cochran’s formula for a limited population, a sample size of 338 respondents was selected using the available random sampling method. For data description, frequency tables and bar charts were used for demographic variables, and in the analytical section, regression and Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests were applied using SPSS software.
Findings: The results of hypothesis testing revealed that rationality in policymaking has a significant effect on accountability in governmental organizations. Increasing the level of rationality in the policymaking process significantly improves various dimensions of accountability in these organizations.
Conclusion: Enhancing rational and evidence-based approaches in policy decision-making is one of the fundamental prerequisites for improving accountability and strengthening public trust in governmental organizations.