Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

The flexibility granted to bureaucrats in interpreting and applying laws and regulations when implementing policy.

The tendency of bureaucratic agencies to implement policies in ways that deviate from the original legislative intent over time. It can result from agency discretion and changing priorities.

Common dysfunctions within bureaucracies, such as red tape, conflict, duplication, and waste, that hinder effective public administration.

A federal system where national and state governments collaborate closely to solve common problems and implement policies.

The collaboration among different government agencies to achieve common policy goals or implement programs efficiently. It addresses overlapping responsibilities and reduces duplication.

A public administration approach emphasizing efficiency, performance measurement, and market-based management techniques.