Accountability in Public Policy Networks

Policy networks consist of state and social actors whose interactions lead to the formulation and/or implementation of policies. One of the characteristics of networks is that power is usually distributed and lies in the relationships among actors. Therefore, network accountability can be problematic. The purpose of this study is to form a theoretical framework for accountability in public policy making networks. The qualitative method of grounded theory was applied. Statistical population consisted of experts who had sufficient knowledge and practical experience in policy making; interviews were conducted with fifteen of such experts. Findings indicate that, after developing policy networks, it is necessary to design both individual and collective accountability mechanisms for policy networks. Findings also show that state capacity building, citizens' demand, and civil society pressure are among the factors which affect the establishment of accountability in policy networks. If public policy networks are held accountable, an increase in the quality of the public policy process, enhanced social vitality and political excellence in the community will follow.