Bureaucratic Resistance in Times of Democratic Backsliding

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João V. Guedes-Neto (Brazilian School of Public and Business Administration at FGV) B. Guy Peters (University of Pittsburgh)

Bureaucratic Resistance in Times of Democratic Backsliding

João V. Guedes-Neto (Brazilian School of Public and Business Administration at FGV), B. Guy Peters (University of Pittsburgh)

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English

Cambridge University Press
16 October 2025

Political structures: democracy; Public administration; Civil service & public sector

Series: Elements in Public and Nonprofit Administration

This Element investigates how public employees react to illiberal policies proposed by authoritarian leaders during democratic backsliding. Using survey experiments employed with 942 bureaucrats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Brazil, the research explores their willingness to resist the implementation of illiberal policies. Findings show a significant readiness for resistance. The results indicate varying levels of resistance across countries, with Brazilian bureaucrats showing the highest, followed by British and American counterparts. Additionally, within-country analysis identifies individual characteristics affecting the intent to resist. The Element explores the dynamic relationship between politicians and bureaucrats, the autonomy of civil servants, and the perils of working under autocratic leadership. It also underscores the need for tailored strategies in recruiting and retaining public employees to uphold democratic values. These findings shed light on the complex dynamics between bureaucrats and democratic governance, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding institutions in times of authoritarian challenges.

By: João V. Guedes-Neto (Brazilian School of Public and Business Administration at FGV), B. Guy Peters (University of Pittsburgh)
Imprint: Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
ISBN: 9781009548182
ISBN 10: 1009548182
Series: Elements in Public and Nonprofit Administration
Pages: 74
Publication Date: 16 October 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active

1. Introduction; 2. A theory of bureaucratic resistance; 3. Bureaucrats and politicians in three selected countries; 4. Empirical tests; 5. Findings; 6. Discussion; References.