clientelisme

Clientelism is a political practice in which patrons provide material benefits or protection to individuals or groups in exchange for political support or loyalty. It rests on a patron–client relationship that operates alongside formal institutions. A patron—such as a political leader, party, or business interest—offers access to jobs, contracts, cash, or social favors in return for votes, mobilization, or favorable behavior from clients.

Mechanisms include the targeted distribution of public goods, employment in public networks, subsidies during campaigns, and informal networks that monitor or pressure supporters. It can be formalized within welfare or recruitment practices, or remain covert. Unlike a one-off bribe, clientelism sustains a continuing reciprocal relationship; clients are expected to stay loyal and active over time.

Clientelism is closely related to patronage and corruption but is defined by a relational logic rather than a single act. It may coexist with formal institutions and, in some contexts, even provide selective social protection when state welfare is weak. Critics argue that clientelism distorts policy choices, undermines accountability, and reproduces inequality, weakening long-term democratic governance.

Regions where clientelism is widely studied include Latin America, parts of Africa and Southern Europe, although forms exist worldwide. In contemporary politics, digital and targeted clientelism can use data and social media to tailor appeals and mobilize supporters. Countermeasures emphasize transparent procurement, merit-based hiring, robust rule of law, and universal social protection to reduce political dependence on patron networks.