Public Management and Vulnerability: Contextualising Change

This book explores the issue of vulnerability in an international context, within public-sector reform processes, and includes multi- and intra-agency working. It uncovers competing and contradictory conceptualizations of the phenomenon and highlights how agencies prioritize and operationalize it. The two recurring themes are the role of non-state organizations and agencies in modern service delivery and the shift from collective or community provision to the stigmatization of individuals. The collection appeals to academics, policy makers, and practitioners in various disciplines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the complex issue of vulnerability within an international context, particularly within the realm of public-sector reform processes. It goes beyond the traditional conceptualization of policing and vulnerability by incorporating multi- and intra-agency collaboration. It uncovers a diverse range of competing and contradictory conceptualizations of the phenomenon, highlighting how different agencies across different jurisdictions prioritize and operationalize this escalating social problem of the 21st century.

Two central themes emerge from this edited collection. Firstly, it explores the increasing role of non-state organizations and agencies in modern service delivery. These entities have become recognized as crucial partners in addressing vulnerability, complementing the efforts of public service professionals and street-level bureaucrats. Collaboration between these different actors is seen as a means to enhance vulnerability mitigation strategies.

Secondly, the book emphasizes the shift away from collective or community provision towards the stigmatization of individuals in the context of vulnerability. With the withdrawal of the state, public service professionals and street-level bureaucrats are increasingly working alongside non-state agents to address vulnerability. This shift reflects a recognition of the limitations of traditional approaches and the need for more holistic and individualized solutions.

The contributions in this collection are drawn from a diverse range of empirical, theoretical, policy, and practice fields. The editors and authors have deliberately sought to encompass a wide range of perspectives and academic and professional authors to ensure an integrative scholarship. The book also includes contributions from international perspectives, highlighting the complexity and multifaceted nature of vulnerability and how socio/cultural, political, and historical factors shape its definitions and responses.

This collection is of interest to academics, policy makers, and practitioners across a wide range of disciplines, including public management and leadership, criminology, policing, social policy, social work, and business management. It provides valuable insights and practical strategies for dealing with the issue of vulnerability, recognizing the importance of collaboration, holistic approaches, and individual empowerment in addressing this complex social problem.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367537081