Hybridism as a national policy style: paths and dilemmas of the majoritarian and consensus approaches in Brazil

Abstract

Abstract: This study reviews the literature on politics and public policies in Brazil arguing that the dominant national policy style may be characterized as hybrid, since it combines majoritarian and consociational traits. This public policy style was mainly hegemonic between the two presidential impeachment processes (1992-2015). This arrangement has two main characteristics: presidential dominance over Congress, albeit also marked by broad negotiation with this branch and greater federative cooperation led by the Union, alongside with subnational entities, and the implementation of social participation arenas. There are dilemmas and problems in this institutional hybridity, but it has been difficult to evade this combination when trying to maintain minimum standards of political governance and public policies. It is concluded that incremental improvements are more effective than the complete modification of the model.