Between Patronage and Meritocracy: Mapping the Kurdish Public Managers

This paper offers a comprehensive exploration of top civil service appointments in the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq (KRG), shedding light on the intricate relationship between merit and patronage in developing contexts. Contrary to common assumptions, the study reveals that merit-based considerations significantly influence these appointments alongside political factors. By analyzing biographical data and conducting interviews with ministers and deputy ministers, the research unveils that top civil service positions in the KRG encompass both political allegiances and noteworthy qualifications. This study not only contributes empirically by providing data on top civil servants' appointments in the KRG but also enriches the conceptual understanding of hybrid appointments in the public sector. The findings underscore the nuanced interplay between merit and patronage, expanding the discourse beyond conventional categorizations.