Open AccessTensions in the political-administrative system: Experiences from Norway
Author(s) -
Kristoffer Kolltveit
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
politica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2246-042X
pISSN - 0105-0710
DOI - 10.7146/politica.v48i4.131286
Subject(s) - danish , politics , civil servants , public administration , political science , political system , function (biology) , political culture , electoral system , political economy , sociology , law , democracy , philosophy , linguistics , evolutionary biology , biology
The Bo Smith report suggests various changes to make the Danish political-administrative system better adapted to new demands in society. In this article, several of these changes are considered in light of experience from Norway. Denmark and Norway share a common heritage, but their systems have developed somewhat differently, not least when it comes to the number and function of political appointees in ministries. The article first describes the political-administrative system in Norway before considering the various proposals. The Bo Smith report does not suggest introducing more political appointees in Danish ministries. The article argues, however, that a strengthening of the political layer together with written guidelines might make it easier for civil servants to act party politically neutral.