The problems of the civil service center primarily around the structure of the service and the attitude of civil servants to work. The following are some of the major problems facing the civil service in a modern state.

Montesquieu defines separation of powers as a system of government by which the legislature, executive, and judiciary are each separate in terms of functions and personnel. He warned that under no circumstance should any two or more functions be performed by one person or body of persons since such a practice will eliminate the liberty of the citizens and thereby encourage tyranny.