The competence of the national congress in Brazil to decide on policy domains marked by a high degree of technical complexity

Paula Gonçalves Ferreira SANTOS

Abstract


Abstract. The competence of the Legislative Power has legitimacy on several bases. The representativeness of Congresspeople, for what purpose they were elected. The competence of Congress concerning its legal system. The institution's technical capacity to understand and decide on the matter. Moreover, the relationship between the Legislative and Executive Powers. All these aspects are essential; however, no single answer works for all countries. Thus, what is investigated in this research is whether, in Brazil, the decision on matters of a technical nature is better taken by the Legislative Power. Or whether these decisions are best resolved within the Executive, where specialists in the field are located. The conclusion is that the Brazilian Parliament works in a unique way but allows a partnership between the Legislative and Executive branches to promote effective governance. Currently, this partnership requires the Executive to relinquish one of its inherent powers, as several technical issues are being addressed within the Legislative Branch. Notwithstanding, that is not the best way to undertake those concerns that demand expertise.

Keywords. Congress; Competence; Technical expertise; Political representation.

JEL. H77; K29.

Keywords


Congress; Competence; Technical expertise; Political representation.

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1453/jepe.v10i2.2431

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