No. 28-29 (1995): Modernización del Estado

The concern for achieving profound modifications in the State to adapt it to the new realities has emerged as one of the basic conditions for overcoming the economic problems that have been burdening Central American countries for several years, mostly related to their acute fiscal deficit problems. It would be necessary to add the persistent pressure exerted by the position of the international financial organizations, known as the "Washington Council", to improve this situation.

In the eighties and within the framework of the Structural Adjustment Programs, some Central American countries took their first steps to initiate their State Reform processes. Although not all of them have reached similar levels of progress, some of them have managed to reduce public employment, privatize certain companies, and carry out certain transformations in the two main areas of Public Finance, related to expenditure control and revenue collection. It would seem, however, that the fundamental point and basis of state transformation presents some limitations with respect to its definition: the required profile of the State, so that it may in turn be the object and subject of the efforts for change.

It is important to emphasize that the imminent approach of the 21st century and the current world conditions of economic globalization are more than imperative to accelerate the processes of State Reform, always bearing in mind that they will only make sense if they are oriented to achieve that a greater percentage of citizens live in better conditions. If this purpose is pursued, even if the measures affect certain groups in the short term, it will be clear that in the medium and long term, the benefit will be greater and that the sacrifices made will have been fully justified.

In Central America, State Reform and Modernization processes have been undertaken in all countries, with different dimensions, scope and characteristics. Their importance shows the preeminent place occupied, both in the VII and XV Summit Meeting of Central American Presidents, by issues related to the modernization and reform of the public sector, aimed at seeking a more efficient and agile State, focused on facilitating and stimulating economic agents and providing adequate services to the population.

Thus, State Reform in Central America is not a new topic, its conceptualization, analysis, discussion and execution have been addressed for several years by politicians, researchers, academics and technicians, in order to approach this topic from different perspectives, in accordance with the realities of their respective countries. The progress achieved in this area seems to show that expectations have far exceeded reality and there is still much to be done if we wish to achieve a real change that will transform society.