Politicization of Bureaucracy

Abstract

This essay seeks to discuss the politicization of bureaucracy. Through a critical literature review, I argue that studies tend to deem politicization a negative characteristic of the bureaucracy. Drawing upon the work of Max Weber, several authors associate politicization to other phenomena, such as patronage and pork-barrel politics. In contrast, I claim politics is inevitable as everyone has views regardless of how little they may be interested in politics. In addition, I point out other relevant problems to understand the challenges Brazilian public service faces. Bearing upon datasets made available by the government and previous studies, I focus on three elements: endogenous inequality, levels of turnover, and recruitment processes. In the end, I claim administrative reforms should focus on these three elements to strengthen the Public Administration and bring more transparency and responsiveness.

Keywords

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