A unique study of public service evolution in the 15 post-soviet countries from independence to date. It reveals the diversity in their transformation shaped by historical and cultural traditions and the soviet legacy they inherited, as well as by the impact of the political will of ruling elites, all of which influenced the socio-economic and governance models these countries adapted.
Its value lays with the fact that it is a collaborative outcome of prominent practitioners, who actively participated in the transformation process, and leading scholars representing all 15 post-soviet countries. It is valuable addition to the body of knowledge of public administration, allowing for improved understanding of the complexity and depth of change that has taken place over the past 30 years. It provides an in-depth analysis of the public service reform process; a subject relevant to the countries of the Region and beyond.
Alikhan Baimenov, Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Astana Civil Service Hub; has held ministerial and other leading public positions and has been a member of Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Panos Liverakos, Member of the Advisory Board of the Astana Civil Service Hub; has served as Chief Technical Advisor/Team Leader with UNDESA and UNDP for many years.
A unique study of public service evolution in the 15 post-soviet countries from independence to date. It reveals the diversity in their transformation shaped by historical and cultural traditions and the soviet legacy they inherited, as well as by the impact of the political will of ruling elites, all of which influenced the socio-economic and governance models these countries adapted.
Its value lays with the fact that it is a collaborative outcome of prominent practitioners, who actively participated in the transformation process, and leading scholars representing all 15 post-soviet countries. It is valuable addition to the body of knowledge of public administration, allowing for improved understanding of the complexity and depth of change that has taken place over the past 30 years. It provides an in-depth analysis of the public service reform process; a subject relevant to the countries of the Region and beyond.
Alikhan Baimenov
Public Administration Professionalism Sustainable Development Goals Civil Service Efficiency
“This is the first study to ask why the fifteen post-Soviet countries have witnessed remarkably divergent results from public service reform. Transformation of public administration ultimately turned out everywhere to depend on constructive power relations. In addition, historical, economic, and organisational factors proved significant for institutionalising professionalism, depoliticisation and meritocracy in the civil service. This work tacitly suggests how experiences across the former USSR, offer significant lessons relevant not only for each other but also for other regions.” (Max Everest-Phillips Former Director of Governance at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London and of the UNDP Global Centre for Public Service Excellence in Singapore)
“This is the first professional study of the 30 transformative years of each and all of the 15 former Soviet Republics. Social and economic developments are linked with civil service reforms and comparatively analysed and assessed. This book deepens knowledge and advances vital understanding of these issues, making it essential reading.” (Chester A. Newland, Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Public Administration, University of Southern California; Former President of ASPA)