Work

Autonomy and accountability: strategic behaviour of German state leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic

Year: 2025

Type: book-chapter

Abstract: This study examines the strategic and opportunistic behaviour of state officials in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on 600 statements by state incumbents, we provide a comprehensive empirical analysis of state-level political behaviour. Our findings show that German regional leaders emphasised their autonomy when performance metrics were favourable (credit-claiming), but strategically shifted responsibility when outcomes were less favourable (blame-avoidance). This pattern was especially pronounced when public attention was high.

Source: Public Choice

DOI: 10.1007/s11127-025-01357-3

Authors: Salvatore Barbaro, Reyn van Ewijk, Julia M. Rode

Institutions: Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Deutsche Bundesbank

Language: English

Topic: Public Administration and Political Analysis

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,090