Regulatory state or social self-regulation? A reflection on the role of the state in policy networks

The institutional relationship between citizens and governments, as well as between the head of state and the civil servants, is currently transforming due to democratization and decentralization processes, together with economical, political and social changes that take place in society in a vertiginous and complex manner. A traditional democratic government with a hierarchical civil service must presently sort out obstacles to deal with complex, dynamic and uncertain contexts. Hence, the traditional model of government in society is beginning to receive criticism - both in the practical and academic field – questioning whether it is an appropriate means to effectively lead the economy and society. In this sense, a new relationship is in sight: the relationship of responsibility between the State, civil society actors and the private sector, giving rise to policy networks as a way of recognizing that public policies emerge from the interaction between public and private actors, accepting that the State continues to be a relevant actor – although not unique – since it on the one hand is who ultimately legitimizes public decisions, and on the other, it retains for itself the possibility of legal action in areas where the players have not reached agreement.