The Guardian State: Strengthening the public service against democratic backsliding

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Yesilkagit, Kutsal; Bauer, Michael; Peters, B. Guy; Pierre, Jon
• 署名单位: Leiden University - Excl LUMC; Leiden University; European University Institute; Pennsylvania Commonwealth System of Higher Education (PCSHE); University of Pittsburgh; University of Gothenburg
• 刊物名称: PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION REVIEW
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0033-3352
• DOI: 10.1111/puar.13808
• 发表日期: 2024
• 页码: 414-425
• 关键词: Bureaucracy; Autonomy

摘要

Liberal democracy has become vulnerable to illiberal political movements and the gradual erosion of democratic institutions. To safeguard liberal democracy, we propose the concept of the Guardian State, which embraces liberal principles while acting as a defensive barrier against illiberal tendencies. We need strong administrative institutions that uphold liberal democratic norms and resist pressures from populist politicians. Institutionalizing guardianship as the key norm within the civil service fortifies democratic institutions against backsliding. The principle of neutrality alone cannot ensure that only liberal citizens come to power. Structural measures at the individual and organizational levels are essential to fortify the foundations of the Guardian State and protect liberal democracy against evolving threats. Proactive efforts are necessary to defend and strengthen the public service to ensure the long-term viability of democratic governance. The Guardian State places the bureaucracy in a key role in preserving the core principles of democracy.