Beneficial social and economic exchange relies on a certain level of trust. But trust is a delicate matter, not least in the former socialist countries where illegitimate behaviour by governments made distrust a habit. The chapters in this volume analyze the causes and the effects of the lack of social trust in post-socialist countries. The contributions originated in the Collegium Budapest project on Honesty and Theory and Experience in the Light of the Post-Socialist Transition. A second volume entitled, Building a Trustworthy State in Post-Socialist Transition , is being published simultaneously.
Although many people feel that Germany provides a model for environmental policymaking, this book shows that it does not. German administrative law, which focuses on individuals' complaints against the state for violating their rights, does not deal adequately with the broad issues of democratic legitimacy and accountable procedures raised in American courts. Susan Rose-Ackerman compares regulatory law and policy in the United States and Germany and argues that the American system can provide lessons for those seeking to reform environmental policymaking in Germany and the newly democratic states of eastern Europe. Democratic governments, says Rose-Ackerman, face the problem of balancing the desires and expertise of conflicting interest groups, such as those that concern themselves with environmental protection. Under German law, however, environmental associations with policy agendas have no enforceable legal right to participate in federal policymaking, and regulation writing is much less open and accountable than in the United States. The U.S. Supreme Court is moving in the direction of the German system - away from review of the rulemaking process and toward a focus on individual rights. Those who support this trend should look critically at the German solution.
The book examines the shortcomings in public oversight and engagement in the policymaking processes of Hungary and Poland. It highlights how these weaknesses affect democratic governance and citizen involvement, providing critical insights into the implications for political accountability and transparency in both countries. Through detailed analysis, the study sheds light on the challenges faced by citizens in influencing policy decisions and the overall health of democracy in the region.
Policymaking Accountability in the US, the UK, Germany, and France
424pages
15 heures de lecture
This book explores the role of regulatory agencies in balancing public consultation with bureaucratic expertise, arguing that such a combination is essential for serving the interests of all citizens. It highlights the importance of inclusive decision-making processes and examines how these agencies can effectively engage the public while maintaining professional standards. Through various case studies, the author illustrates the potential benefits and challenges of this approach in enhancing democratic governance and accountability.
