Red tapism means having too many rules, approvals, and formal steps that make it slow and difficult to get things done, especially in government offices.
The term dates back to 16th‑century England, when officials would tie legal and administrative papers with red ribbons or tape to mark them as important. Gradually, this physical gesture became a metaphor. The phrase “cutting through red tape” grew popular to describe the effort required to navigate excessive paperwork and procedural obstacles
In essence, red tapism refers to bureaucratic rigidity, where countless rules, layers of approval, and formalities slow down even simple decisions. Originally, these measures were meant to promote order, transparency, and accountability in governance. However, in practice, they often lead to inefficiency, frustration, and a sense of detachment between institutions and the people they serve.
Today, the shadow of red tapism extends beyond government bureaucracies into corporate systems and public services. It’s a reminder that while rules are essential for structure, too much of them can hold back progress and erode the trust and agility they were meant to build.
