Problematisation

Symbolic Blame, Substantive Evasion: Problematizing the Performance of Accountability

Introduction

In democratic societies, citizens rightly demand accountability from those in power. When crises erupt or failures surface, political leaders often step forward to offer statements, stage public apologies, or initiate investigations. At first glance, these gestures suggest ethical awareness and institutional responsiveness. But a closer look reveals something more calculated: a performance of accountability. Rather than triggering real change, these symbolic acts are often carefully managed tools of blame avoidance. This article explores how performative accountability functions within modern governance and how problematization can help us unpack the illusion of responsibility these performances sustain…

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