Bureaucrats are officials who work within government agencies or organizations to implement policies and manage public services. They are responsible for ensuring that laws and regulations are followed, and they often handle administrative tasks such as processing applications, maintaining records, and overseeing budgets. Bureaucrats play a crucial role in the functioning of government and can be found at various levels, from local to national.
The term "bureaucracy" refers to the system of administration that includes these officials. While bureaucrats are essential for maintaining order and efficiency, they can sometimes be criticized for being overly rigid or slow to adapt to change. Their work is guided by established rules and procedures, which can lead to a perception of inefficiency in some cases.