delegatio

Delegatio is a Latin term used in law and governance to denote the transfer of authority or tasks from one person or body to another, while the delegating entity retains ultimate accountability. In Roman and later civil and administrative law, delegatio describes how powers or duties can be entrusted to a representative or sub-ordinated body without relinquishing overall responsibility.

Etymology and usage: The word derives from Latin delegatio, typically linked to delegare, meaning to entrust or appoint by designation. In modern legal and administrative contexts, delegatio became a framework for distributing decision-making authority within governments, organizations, and between private and public actors.

Scope and types: Delegation can be internal, within an organization such as a government ministry or corporate board distributing tasks to managers or departments, or external, when authority is entrusted to an agent, contractor, or lower-level authority. Delegation may cover administrative decisions, regulatory enforcement, or routine operational acts. It is usually governed by defined limits, duration, and conditions, and is revocable or suspendable by the delegator. The delegator typically remains legally responsible for acts performed by the delegate, subject to applicable liability rules and oversight mechanisms.

Practical considerations: Effective delegation requires clear scope, explicit authority, written or contractual documentation when appropriate, and appropriate supervision and accountability. It helps distribute workload and enable timely action, but risks include scope creep, loss of control, and potential liability if the delegate exceeds authority or acts improperly.

See also: delegation of authority, mandate, proxy, representation, agency, delegation agreement.