Public Service Reforms in a Small Island State: The Case of Malta

This book examines public service reforms in Malta, covering the historical background, recent reforms, and their impact on government employees and the Maltese population. It also looks at global reform trends and their potential implications for public service delivery.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into a detailed examination of public service reforms in Malta, focusing on both the trajectory and substance of these transformative initiatives. Spanning from the 1500s to the 2010s, the volume offers a holistic treatment of the public sector within the European Union's smallest member state. The book is structured into four parts, each dedicated to exploring specific aspects of public service administration and management.

Part I provides a historical backdrop, tracing the evolution of public service administration and management in Malta from its early days to the present. It explores the various challenges and changes that have shaped the public sector over the centuries, including political, economic, and social developments.

Part II delves into the recent reforms initiated in 2013, following the election of Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. Each chapter in this section focuses on a distinct reform theme, such as transparency and accountability, civil service systems and human resource management, service delivery and digitalization, organization and management of government reforms, policymaking, coordination, and implementation. These chapters provide a comprehensive analysis of the key issues and challenges faced by the Maltese public sector and offer innovative solutions to address them.

Part III explores the internal and external impact of the reforms, conducting a survey among government employees and the Maltese population to gather insights and perspectives. The findings of this survey are presented and analyzed, shedding light on the successes, challenges, and opportunities arising from the reforms.

In the concluding chapter, the book examines global reform trends that are likely to shape public service delivery in the future. It discusses emerging challenges and opportunities, such as the impact of technology, globalization, and demographic changes, and offers insights into how Malta can adapt and evolve its public service practices to remain relevant and effective.

This book is a valuable resource for researchers and students interested in public sector management, administration, and public policy. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the Maltese public sector and offers practical insights and recommendations for policymakers and practitioners alike. The book's interdisciplinary approach, combining historical analysis, empirical research, and policy considerations, makes it an essential read for anyone seeking to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability of public services.

Weight: 557g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030743598
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021