Budgetzyklen

Budgetzyklen, also translated as budgetary cycles, refer to the recurring and rhythmic phases governments typically follow in their fiscal planning and execution. While specific procedures vary by country, the concept generally outlines a structured sequence of events from the initial planning of a budget to its eventual audit.

The cycle usually begins with a preparation or formulation phase. During this stage, various government ministries and agencies submit their funding requests and policy priorities to the central finance ministry. This is followed by a legislative phase where the proposed budget is debated, amended, and ultimately approved by the parliament or congress. The government then enters the execution phase, where the approved funds are distributed and spent according to the law.

A crucial component closing the loop is the audit and evaluation phase. After the fiscal year ends, independent bodies, such as national audit offices, scrutinize the government's accounts to ensure expenditures were lawful and efficient. The findings from this audit often inform the preparation of the next budget, creating a continuous feedback loop.

The entire cycle is often tied to a government's fiscal year, which may or may not align with the calendar year. Understanding these cycles is essential for transparency, public accountability, and long-term economic planning. They provide a predictable framework for public services, businesses, and citizens to anticipate government spending and revenue collection.