Steps towards public administration reform in the Balkans: a simplified model
Steps towards public administration reform in the Balkans: a simplified model

Summary/Abstract: This paper will focus on simplified strategies to optimize public administration trough a coherent, applicable and sustainable reform process. While the paper will try to point out reliable strategies for countries on the Balkan Peninsula it will not be strictly limited according to specified geographical boundaries and shall consider a global perspective. In this context, especially solution models or case studies previously applied by the International Community, i.e. international organizations as the OSCE, the EU or the UN will be considered after being critically reviewed regarding their implementation potential in the Balkans. It should also be pointed out that quite a lot of programs aiming at the reduction of bureaucratic hurdles, the development of a more efficient administration and more transparency, while in principle a positive future asset for states on the Balkan Peninsula have to be adjusted to actual needs and the de facto environment in the region. Well-meant intentions and initiatives by the international community often merely tried to transfer experiences and models implemented in so called “developing countries” or the “Third World” on the Balkans; a situation which barely meets even basic standards of political and sociological in the region. Certainly, regional countries cannot be measured with the same standards as developing countries, but moreover should be judged as European countries being on a transitional process to adapt their respective administrations according to contemporary, more effective solution models. On the other hand, transparency should not remain a catchphrase: only publicly known clear and preset standards for administrative work, will together with information on public work create an environment really enabling citizens to profit from transparency. One of the most important aspects addressed within this short study is the implementation of transparency programs in administrative structures as one of the center pieces of public administrative reform in the region. It will be pointed out that there is no definitive or absolute model to guarantee a successful public service reform, but that it is quite possible to combine approaches that are featuring transparency and anti-corruption measures, good governance, professional training programs as well as the simplification of bureaucratic processes and adapt them according to local needs and peculiarities. Furthermore, it is stressed that the use of new information technologies and networking methods should be encouraged while it is also important not to complicate those processes too much: efficiency and simplicity are of major importance.

• Details
• Contents