ПРОБЛЕМИ ПРИ ДЕФИНИРАНЕТО НА ПОНЯТИЕТО "АДМИНИСТРАТИВЕН КАПАЦИТЕТ"

The last few years are witnessing rapid grow in the use of the ‘administrative capacity’ concept in Bulgaria, with overwhelmingly negative connotation. The flaws – real or apparent - of the administrative capacity reach the status of universal explanation of all failures, mistakes and even facts of corruption. This article identifies some typical pitfalls in the common efforts to define the ‘administrative capacity’ concept. A framework is set for further clarification of its main traits and components. ‘Administrative capacity’ is understood as capability of the administration (as a whole or as specific administrative structures) to deliver services, to meet relevant targets, therefore – to respond to public expectations. Following the historic evolution of ideas about the ‘capacity to govern’ some oversimplified notions or ‘myths’ about administrative capacity are dismantled.