Agroenergy Policies and the Influence of Interest Groups – the Case of Polo Agroindustrial e Bioenergético do Médio São Francisco in Bahia, Brasil

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this article was to investigate how public policies to promote productive activities can be influenced by the actions of interest groups, affect decision-making, and consequently increase the risks of failure and generate government failures. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework adopted is the theories of Public Choice and Strategic Public Management, which provided the basis for understanding the context of the investigation. Method: The methodology consisted of literature review, interviews, policy analysis methodology (PAM) and case study. Data was collected through bibliographic and documentary research, semi-structured interviews with public officials, business people and researchers, and field visits for direct observation. Results and Discussion: The findings revealed that interest groups opposed to stricter regulations on the occupation of territorial space for the exploitation of natural resources influenced the decision-making process for setting the policy agenda, formulating and implementing policies. It also revealed the "permeability" of the government to pressure from these groups, which resulted in the nonimplementation of the Polo. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research provide insights into how the findings can influence practices in the fields of state theory, public policy formulation and management, and territorial development, as well as in the productive, social, and environmental sectors. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by relating the adopted theories to a real case of public policy failure, so that public policy makers can develop mechanisms to curb or minimize the influence of these groups in governments.