Although neoliberalism has remained the major economic strategy for post- Pinochet governments, in the 1990s it was sought to be combined with a liberal democracy and an increased decentralization....Show moreAlthough neoliberalism has remained the major economic strategy for post- Pinochet governments, in the 1990s it was sought to be combined with a liberal democracy and an increased decentralization. In general, pronounced effects of both neoliberalism and decentralization is a change in the approach to governance. With the drastic attitudes of states toward the economy and social-policy making caused by neoliberal reform, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have become actors of increasing importance. Subsequently, worldwide decentralization trends, most notably in the 1990s, have moved NGOs to assume new roles as active social service-deliverers and co-workers of development. When looking at Chile, major political shifts occurred with its return to democracy. Nonetheless, the neoliberal model implemented under Pinochet has always stayed. As such, the era of the dictatorial regime vis-à-vis shows both similarities and contrasts. Comparing both areas, this thesis examines to what degree the Chilean state’s governance approach changed under its return to democracy, focusing on how NGO-state relations have changed and what roles were assumed by NGOs.Show less
