Impact of public procurement principles on procedures for the acquisition of goods and services
Keywords:
Procurement principles, public procurement, public management, contractors, users and consumers, administrative proceduresAbstract
Public procurement in Ecuador is subject to constant scrutiny due to its association with high levels of corruption, which generates undue benefits for certain actors with decision-making power, while causing economic and social harm to citizens. Transparency and efficiency in these processes are fundamental, as the acquisition of goods, execution of works, and provision of services have a direct impact on the country's development. This study aimed to analyze the impact of the principles of public procurement on the administrative procedures for the acquisition of goods and services in Ecuador. A qualitative approach with a descriptive and explanatory scope was adopted, employing the hermeneutic-legal method to examine the regulatory framework and its application in practice. The results showed that, although the National Public Procurement System is based on principles such as legality, transparency, equality, and competition, in practice its application is limited, especially in emergency procurements where certain requirements are relaxed. The lack of uniformity in the interpretation of the regulations and the discretion in oversight have led to legal uncertainty for public servants and the political use of control processes. It is concluded that it is necessary to strengthen the regulatory framework and supervision mechanisms to ensure the effective application of public procurement principles and avoid their instrumentalization with administrative or political fines.
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