Accountability Mechanisms in Public Services: Activating New Dynamics in a Prison System

ABSTRACT

This qualitative study analyzes the activation of accountability mechanisms in public services and the changing dynamics between relevant actors. It remains unclear how accountability relationships emerge, when they are introduced, and under which circumstances administrative values are challenged over the course of administrative reforms. Our analysis of a Brazilian state prison system elucidates some of these elements by investigating a case in which an institutional crisis resulted in administrative reforms and new accountability dynamics. Our findings suggest that initiating accountability reforms before some services reach the level of severe crisis may be particularly difficult. We demonstrate that the development of accountability relationships is largely influenced by prominent actors capable of strategizing their actions in a collaborative fashion with other stakeholders. Additional layers of external regulation are also crucial to reduce the risks of political and regulatory capture, engage previously absent stakeholders, activate accountability mechanisms, and make reforms possible.

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Notes on contributors

Sandro Cabral

Sandro Cabral ([email protected] and [email protected]) is an Associate Professor at Insper and at the Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, both in Brazil. His research focuses on the interactions between public management and strategy.

Maria-Fátima Santos

Maria-Fátima Santos ([email protected]) is a PhD student in the Department of Sociology at the University of California, Berkeley. Her research interests include statecraft, political sociology, penal reform, and the law.