Executive Secrecy and Democratic Politics

The investigation focuses on how parliamentary actors in Germany navigate the tension between executive secrecy and the demands of a transparent democracy. Through case studies on intelligence agencies and Public Private Partnerships, it reveals that while justifications for secrecy based on necessity are contentious, democratic procedures for legitimizing secrecy are essential. The analysis highlights the fragility of this legitimation process and emphasizes the ongoing need for its renewal, showcasing the complexities involved in balancing secrecy with democratic accountability.