How deeply is quality management (QM) embedded in the public administrations of EU Member States and candidate countries?
In our latest study, The Institutionalisation of Quality Management in the EU Member States and Candidate Countries with a Focus on the CAF Model, our European CAF Resource Centre team at EIPA offer fresh insights into this critical question. The study is part of European Public Sector Award 2023-24 (EPSA) which is supported by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM) and other key partners. It analyses QM adoption across 27 EU countries and selected candidates, using the Common Assessment Framework (CAF) as a benchmark.
Key Findings: A Patchworked Landscape
The study reveals a diverse QM landscape across Europe. In candidate countries, QM often begins as a centrally driven, externally supported initiative designed to align with EU governance standards. In contrast, many Member States demonstrate a more mature, decentralised approach, where quality improvements are embedded within individual public entities. However, even among the most developed systems, challenges persist. Political will fluctuates, priorities shift, and in some cases, quality management efforts are overshadowed by isolated reform agendas focusing on digitalisation or performance management without a comprehensive QM framework.
Three Key Takeaways:
- Leadership matters: Countries with sustained political commitment see greater success in embedding QM into governance structures.
- Adaptability is crucial: While centralisation helps in early QM adoption, mature systems thrive on decentralisation, allowing for flexibility and innovation.
- Knowledge-sharing accelerates progress: Cross-border cooperation, networks, and training initiatives play a pivotal role in sustaining QM improvements.
Practical recommendations for policymakers
This study offers practical recommendations for policymakers, public sector leaders, and quality management practitioners to strengthen institutionalisation. It underscores the need for dedicated competence centres, stable political backing, and enhanced capacity-building initiatives to ensure QM remains an integral part of governance. As public administrations navigate increasing demands for transparency, efficiency, and resilience, investing in quality today means building a stronger, more accountable future for European governance.
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