Les élites de la réforme

Abstract

Elites of the Reform The RGPP Programme Review has been implemented by a specific administrative elite. This article distinguishes between three circles of innovators, which are grouped according to their involvement in the reform process and ability to influence it. The reform pursued since 2007 is supported by new networks, and the “top circle” of innovators has been extensively renewed. The article shows that the RGPP has been implemented by a very tight core network of senior civil servants. They do not have the same profile as young civil servants from the corps techniques and the middle classes who seek to use new public management methods in order to counter the power of the grands corps. Quite the contrary, they are members of the grand corps administratifs, who have acquired professional experience in the private sector and ministers’private offices. They constitute a unique network of specialists in financial matters. Their profile is thus very different from the civil servants who are members of the two other circles responsible for implementing the reform.