Challenges in the comparative analysis of developments of the public administrations – The case of Hungary

Abstract

Several reforms were introduced in the Hungarian public administration in the last decade that reshaped both the local and central governance levels. A well-functioning administration with embedded institutions enables the formulation of a competitive environment that favorably effects the country’s economic growth. The projects of the reform program are partly financed by the European Union’s Cohesion Funds through the Hungarian Public Administration and Civil Service Development Operation Programme. Hungary is committed to attain a good state through good governance and devoted to implement a results-oriented approach in its policy cycles. The international indexes providing comparisons among public administrations of different countries cannot fully and in detail reflect the results and impact of executed projects. As a response to the need for continuous monitoring based on data, the Hungarian Government introduced a unique pilot evidence-based assessment framework connected to the selected projects of the Hungarian Public Administration and Civil Service Development Operation Programme. The institutional framework is provided by the National University of Public Service, utilizing the advantage of its research and professional expertise. The results and impacts are measured and continuously monitored both at project and national levels. The steady monitoring and data gathering provides a good basis for a comprehensive evaluation and further policy-making.