This handbook presents contemporary research on public administration in Latin America. The first section explores the range of administrative systems in existence across the region. The second portion of the book discusses important topics such as public personnel management, accountability and policy coordination in Latin America.

Improving public services, using State resources efficiently, and managing State agencies effectively have been ongoing concerns of Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) governments since the beginning of this century. Government officials are now paying closer attention to the results obtained by their administrations. Citizens are now demanding not only universality but also quality in the services that the State provides (e.g., education, healthcare, and legal services). To meet this growing demand for public sector effectiveness, governments have formulated new laws, created or modified institutions, and implemented innovative management methodologies and instruments.Based on data gathered in 24 countries, this book analyzes the current situation, the progress made, and the challenges still facing the governments of the region in their efforts to achieve more effective public administrations.

The authors of this volume explore general themes of managerial public administration and government reform, then focus on specific Latin American experiences and trends. Discussions of accountability, empowerment, citizen values and new institutions are also included.

Study of public administration in Latin America, with particular reference to technical cooperation provided to improve efficiency thereof - covers the role of UN and specialized agencies, research needs, the implementation of training programmes for public servants, etc., and includes comments on applicability of the proposals in Brazil, Chile, Peru and Venezuela. References.