The new public administration

The New Public Administration (NPA) is a movement in public administration that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, characterized by a shift away from traditional bureaucratic approaches and towards more participatory, decentralized, and responsive forms of governance.

Key features of the New Public Administration:

  1. Participatory governance: NPA emphasizes the importance of involving citizens, stakeholders, and community groups in the decision-making process to ensure that public policies and programs are responsive to their needs and concerns.
  2. Decentralization: NPA advocates for decentralizing power and decision-making authority to lower levels of government, non-profit organizations, and community-based initiatives, allowing for more flexibility and adaptability in response to local needs.
  3. Human-centered approach: NPA focuses on the needs and well-being of individuals and communities, rather than just the efficiency and effectiveness of government programs.
  4. Collaboration and partnerships: NPA encourages collaboration and partnerships between government agencies, non-profit organizations, private sector entities, and community groups to achieve common goals and address complex social and economic issues.
  5. Emphasis on equity and social justice: NPA prioritizes addressing social and economic inequalities and promoting social justice, recognizing that public administration has a critical role to play in reducing disparities and promoting greater equality.
  6. Adaptive and flexible management: NPA emphasizes the importance of adaptability and flexibility in public administration, recognizing that complex social and economic issues require innovative and responsive solutions.
  7. Focus on outcomes and results: NPA emphasizes the importance of measuring outcomes and results, rather than just inputs and processes, to ensure that public programs and policies are effective and efficient.

The New Public Administration has been influenced by various theoretical perspectives, including:

  1. Public choice theory: This perspective emphasizes the importance of individual preferences and choices in shaping public policy and administration.
  2. New institutionalism: This perspective highlights the role of institutions and organizational structures in shaping public policy and administration.
  3. Participatory governance: This perspective emphasizes the importance of citizen participation and engagement in public decision-making processes.
  4. Social constructivism: This perspective recognizes that public administration is shaped by social and cultural norms, values, and power relationships.

The New Public Administration has had a significant impact on public administration theory and practice, influencing the development of new approaches to governance, policy-making, and service delivery.