Relations between government and social organizations: A critical review in three Mexican states

Authors

  • María Teresa Villarreal Martínez Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey

Abstract

This paper analyses the institutional mechanisms for relations between government and social organizations in three Mexican states: Jalisco, Michoacán and Nuevo León. Using as parameters of analysis, inclusion/ exclusion levels, transparency and incidence opportunity, we seek to determine how the use of those mechanisms contributes to the democratization of public policy. We conclude that, in the absence of anappropriate legal framework, the design and execution of support and service programs for civil groups is subject to government discretion and to its particular definition of citizen participation.

Keywords:

civic organizations, institutionalized participation, democratization