The biggest public sector challenges in Germany - A citizen perspective

Background: This report provides insights into citizens' perceptions on current challenges for the public sector, both for the German public sector as a whole and for cities and municipalities. In a representative survey, respondents were asked about the challenges the public sector is facing, by evaluating ten different topics. Based on the ranking of topics and comparisons across subgroups, we can provide an insight into citizens' expectations in order to set priorities in public administration research and policy development. <br/> <br/>Data & methods: We started from ten different topics that are often dealt with in scientific as well as practice debates. These ten topics are: (1) attract competent public sector employees, (2) keep up to date with new technological developments, (3) keep public employees motivated, (4) involve citizens in decision-making processes, (5) report performance transparently, (6) preserve a good reputation, (7) represent all groups in society (e.g. migrants, older people, etc.), (8) maintain a good public service quality, (9) maintain public infrastructure (e.g. public buildings, roads, bridges, etc.), and (10) work efficiently. <br/> <br/>Main findings: All ten topics are, on average, rated as a substantial challenge, i.e. mean values are at the positive side of the response scale (i.e. towards “a very big challenge”). The top-three challenges perceived by citizens are: (1) maintain public infrastructure, (2) work efficiently, and (3) keep up to date with new technological developments.