Discussions around public service reform have never been more timely, considering the current geopolitical landscape and South Africa’s ongoing efforts to reform its public sector. With increasing challenges in governance, it’s crucial that policies are based on evidence, not political power. At the New South Institute, we’ve been reflecting on public service reform, and many of our key points align with those highlighted in NSI Director Ivor Chipkin’s paper, “Democracy, Power and Evidence-Informed Policy-Making: The Case of Public Service Reform in South Africa”. 

Key insights:

• South Africa has shifted from a bureaucratic model to a more managerial approach – what challenges does this bring for effective governance?

• The tension between political leaders and senior officials impacts service delivery. How can we navigate this divide?

• The paper explores how evidence-based policy-making (epistemic communities) often clashes with political agendas (deontic communities). How can we ensure policies are shaped by facts, not just politics?

• What lessons can be learned from the state capture era, and how can we depoliticise public service?

• South Africa is making progress in reducing political influence and strengthening public service autonomy. What does the future hold?

The insights shared are invaluable for shaping future policy and advancing the professionalisation of the public sector in South Africa and beyond.

Visit the link to read the full paper: https://nsi.org.za/publications/democracy-power-and-evidence-informed-policy-making-the-case-of-public-service-reform-in-south-africa/