The COVID-19 pandemic and the state: is it emerging a new configuration of public administration

Abstract

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic led the state to accelerated ongoing reforms regarding its scope, responsibilities, and operation model. These have also affected public administration and its autonomy and configuration. This period of contingency may mean a horizon of possibilities, or to an open horizon of change. The state can be oriented towards horizontal and participatory structures and methods or vertical and centralized hierarchies. In this extraordinary situation of complexity, contingency, and uncertainty, it seems necessary to ask about the theoretical concepts and methodologies available in the areas of study of political science and administration. These questions led us to point out potential directions taking shape in the Brazilian state and public administration.

Keywords:
Public administration; Pandemic COVID-19; State reform; Contingency; Risk