Politics of Public Appointments in Latin America

This book explores how public appointments influence and are shaped by political and administrative factors, affecting governance, state capacity, and democratic legitimacy across Latin America. Through comparative analyses and case studies from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru, it investigates the complex interplay between political interests and meritocratic principles. The volume examines how politicized appointments impact institutional performance, corruption, and societal inequality, shedding light on strategic calculations behind cabinet formation, bureaucratic recruitment, and professionalization efforts. By dissecting the tensions between politics and bureaucratic expertise, the book highlights the challenges of politicization and the possibilities of professionalization and merit-based reforms. Rich with nuanced insights, this work serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to understand and enhance public sector governance, institutional reform, and democratic stability in Latin America and beyond.