Governance and the Democratic Deficit

This book examines the shift from traditional government to governance, analyzing its implications for democratic legitimacy and public administration practices.

In Governance and the Democratic Deficit, the author explores the significant shift in public policy making, commonly referred to as the transition from 'government' to 'governance'. This transformation signifies a departure from traditional hierarchical structures to a more collaborative approach, where policy making and implementation occur through negotiation and cooperation among various public and private actors. By examining this new governance framework, the book sheds light on how these changes impact democratic legitimacy and accountability.

The text delves into the concept of governance, highlighting its non-hierarchical, network-like nature that operates across multiple political levels. As governance evolves, it raises critical questions about the 'democratic deficit'—the perceived gap between the decision-making processes and the democratic ideals of participation and representation. The author employs empirical analysis alongside normative assessments to critically evaluate these governance practices, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of their implications.

Governance and the Democratic Deficit serves as an essential resource for students and scholars of public administration, providing a systematic framework for assessing different modes of governance at local, national, European, and international levels. The book aims to foster a deeper understanding of how these governance structures can be both effective and democratic, ultimately contributing to the ongoing discourse on enhancing democratic practices in contemporary policy-making environments.