The domain of public administration

Abstract

Public Administration as a discipline is traditionally associated with the domain of the public sector and the executive duties of government. Various developments during the past decades have had a marked effect on the delimitation of the public sector and the role of governmental institutions in serving society. Partnerships between public institutions and so-called private bodies, nongovernmental organisations and other entities necessitate a re-evaluation of the area of study of Public Administration. This article is intended to introduce a debate on the determination of the domain of Public Administration in a contemporary state in which the government and private sectors have to co-operate to satisfy the complex needs of society. Thus attention has to be devoted not only to the traditional activities associated with administration and management, but also acknowledging the need for governance in rendering services to society.