Over-development of bureaucracy in ex-colonial countries

Nature

At the time of independence most ex-colonial countries have well-developed governmental institutions and a strong civil service; this facilitates the transition to self-government. But the continued professionalization and expansion of the civil service tends to outpace the growth of executive, legislative and judicial organs of government, and of parallel development of interest groups in the private sector. It also favours an apparent carry-over from the colonial period of attitudes of superiority and disdain toward the public, and a preoccupation with law-and-order considerations rather than with programmes of economic development and social welfare. Under conditions of economic scarcity, government posts are much sought after at the expense of the development of the private sector.

Incidence

A 2017 World Bank report noted that several ex-colonial countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia have experienced significant expansion of bureaucratic structures since independence, often resulting in public sectors employing over 10% of the workforce, compared to a global average of 6%. This over-development is frequently linked to inherited colonial administrative frameworks, which have been expanded rather than streamlined, leading to inefficiencies and increased public expenditure.
In 2015, Nigeria’s federal civil service was reported to have over 90,000 employees, with overlapping ministries and agencies. This proliferation, rooted in colonial administrative legacies, contributed to budgetary strain and hampered effective governance and service delivery.

Claim

The over-development of bureaucracy in ex-colonial countries is a critical issue that stifles innovation, hinders economic growth, and perpetuates inefficiency. These bloated bureaucracies often prioritize red tape over effective governance, alienating citizens and fostering corruption. Instead of empowering local communities, they create barriers to progress, trapping nations in a cycle of dependency and stagnation. Addressing this problem is essential for fostering sustainable development and ensuring that these countries can thrive independently in a globalized world.

Counter-claim

The notion that over-development of bureaucracy in ex-colonial countries is a significant problem is misguided. Bureaucracy, when properly structured, can enhance governance, ensure accountability, and promote stability. Instead of viewing it as a hindrance, we should recognize it as a necessary framework for development. Focusing on bureaucracy distracts from more pressing issues like poverty, education, and healthcare. Let’s prioritize real challenges rather than fixating on an exaggerated perception of bureaucratic inefficiency.