Men in black

A government agent is someone who represents the interests of a government. While many people associate government agents specifically with law enforcement, they can actually work in a wide variety of capacities. To be a government agent, someone usually needs to be a citizen of the government he or she works for, and be able to pass a background and character test, because he or she represents the government at all times and is expected to adhere to a very high standard of conduct.

In a law enforcement capacity, a government agent can act in the interests of the government to investigate, prosecute, and prevent crimes which are believed to be harmful to the government. Government agents also enforce standards and codes, such as agents who work for government health services, environmental agencies, and so forth. In addition to enforcing standards set by the government, government agents can be be involved in the formulation of new policy. Many government agents work as examiners to determine whether or not citizens are complying with the law, whether they are inspecting tax records or visiting factories to test emissions.