Understanding the Role of Political Staff and Parliamentary Administrations

The staff working in parliaments represent a highly relevant, yet significantly understudied group of actors. While political scientists have sought to understand the activities of elected representatives in parliaments, the role of the administration and political staff is understudied. However, the sparse case studies that exist underscore the key role played by political staff in brokering information, advising, preparing and exercising legislative oversight, preparing and in part conducting legislative compromise-seeking, and interacting with various actors such as lobby groups, citizens, and the media. Yet, such roles may well vary between political systems. In addition, some staff later pursue a political career, further blurring the lines between politics and administration. This issue seeks to provide cutting-edge research in this emerging field, bridging the disciplines of political science and public administration.