TheBrazilianAssociation ofRegulatoryAgencies: Integrating levels, consolidating identities in the regulatory state in the south

In: Regulation & governance, Band 7, Heft 4, S. 547-559

Abstract

AbstractThis article discusses a unique organization in the regulatory world, theBrazilianAssociation ofRegulatoryAgencies (ABAR), which brings together federal, state, and municipal regulatory agencies across different policy sectors. The paper argues that as a regulatory policy network,ABARhas been crucial to the professional socialization, capacity building, and institutionalization of regulators inBrazil. Moreover, it has promoted their identity as professionals and differentiated them from politicians, regulatees, and societal actors. Thus, whileABARraises the shield of expertise to secure independence from political and social interference, it has itself become a relevant actor in the country's regulatory political dynamics, contributing as such to the strengthening of theBrazilian regulatory state.