Download CSS Governance Syllabus PDF – CSS Syllabus pdf
CSS Governance Syllabus
Governance and Public Policies is an optional in the CSS (in Group 3 in the list). It focuses on how governments work, how decisions are made, and how public services are delivered. This subject covers governance theories, the role of institutions, public policy-making, and accountability. It also highlights the role of citizens and the Islamic concept of good governance. The subject is analytical and concept-based, making it ideal for those with an interest in political science, current affairs, and administration. Aspirants can download the CSS Governance and Public Policies syllabus PDF from our website, CSS Updates.

CSS Governance and Public Policies Syllabus
I. Understanding Governance
- Meaning and origin of the word “governance”
- What is good governance?
- Features: rule of law, transparency, accountability, participation, etc.
- What causes failure in governance and its impacts
II. Theories of Governance
- Communitarianism
- Libertarian Socialism
- Marxism
- Neoliberalism
- Rational Choice Theory
- Institutionalism
- Decentered Theory
- Regulation Theory
III. Governance Indicators by Global Organizations
- Voice and Accountability
- Political Stability
- Government Effectiveness
- Quality of Regulatory Authorities
- Rule of Law
- Corruption Control
- Application of these in Pakistan
IV. Policy and Planning Institutions
- Key national planning bodies (Planning Commission, Finance Division, etc.)
- Role of federal and provincial governments
- Role of international donors (like IMF) in shaping public policies
- Policy implementation in sectors like education and health
V. Accountability
- Meaning and types (political, legal, administrative, etc.)
- Strategies to fight corruption in Pakistan
- National and international comparisons
VI. Bureaucracy
- What is bureaucracy?
- Key thinkers: Max Weber, Marx, Woodrow Wilson, etc.
- Role of bureaucracy in Pakistan: strengths and challenges
- Code of ethics and Estacode
VII. Making and Implementing Policies
- Steps in policy making
- How bureaucracy affects policy implementation
- Problems in the process: delays, political interference, lack of training
- How policies are analyzed and evaluated
VIII. Governance in Pakistan (Multiple Levels)
- Role of Parliament, judiciary, president, PM, provincial governments
- Local government system (district, tehsil, union councils)
IX. Federalism and Decentralization
- Public participation in federal structure
- Service delivery and subsidiarity
- Example: Kerala’s decentralization model
X. Citizens’ Role in Governance
- How ordinary people contribute to good governance
XI. Governance in Islam
- Quranic and Sunnah-based principles of governance
- Role of Islamic teachings in promoting justice, accountability, and fairness
Download CSS Governance Syllabus PDF
Click on the download button below to download the updated syllabus of CSS Governance (group 3 from optional subjects).
FAQs
What is the CSS Governance and Public Policies subject about?
It’s an optional subject that explains how governments work, how policies are made, and how to improve public services and accountability.
How many marks is the Governance and Public Policies paper?
It is a 100-mark subject.
Is Governance and Public Policies a scoring subject?
Yes, it’s considered moderately scoring, especially if you understand concepts clearly and support answers with examples.
What is the size of the syllabus?
The syllabus is moderate in length but theory-heavy. It includes governance theories, bureaucracy, public policy-making, and more.
Do I need a political science background to choose this subject?
No, you don’t. Anyone with an interest in current affairs, administration, or governance can prepare it well.
Where can I download the CSS Governance syllabus PDF?
You can download it from our website, CSS Updates.