Ministerial Turnover and Coalition Stability in Chile, 1990 – 2010

Abstract

This paper analyzes ministerial turnover during the four Concertación administrations between 1990 and 2010. In addition to describing party involvement in cabinet formation, we analyze the impact of ministerial turnover on government and coalition stability. Ministerial turnover is defined as the appointment and dismissal of ministers from the cabinet during one administration. In terms of political careers, ministerial turnover is viewed as that aspect of a politician’s career trajectory that has the purpose of gaining experience, increasing their political capital and gaining access to elected posts.