What does the future hold for the public sector? A convergence of illiberalism, major crises, system quakes and digital transformations are reshaping current politico-administrative systems. How will this challenge the way states and public administrations can and should be managed, and what will be the impact on citizen–administrative relations and our models of democracy? In this book, leading public administration scholars reflect on major trends in the public sector and their implications. They offer visions of how the academic field of public administration can respond to or anticipate possible futures. Ideal for policymakers, academics, and anyone interested in the future of governance, this compelling work reflects on how the forces transforming our world will impact the public sector.

Geert Bouckaert is professor emeritus at the KU Leuven Public Governance Institute. He is past-president of the European Group for Public Administration, and of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences.

Annie Hondeghem is professor and former director of the KU Leuven Public Governance Institute. She co-ordinates the Policy Research Centre on Governance Innovation, commissioned by the Flemish government.

Trui Steen is professor in public governance and co-production of public services and director of the KU Leuven Public Governance Institute. She publishes on public sector innovation and co-creation of public services.

Steven Van de Walle is professor in public management at the KU Leuven Public Governance Institute. Prior to joining KU Leuven, he held the chair of Public Management at Erasmus University Rotterdam.