The financial and economic crisis of the past decade and now the Covid-19 pandemic have tested the strength and resilience of governments, prompting a deeper reflection on how to improve public sector performance against the backdrop of austerity policy.

To find out how efficient public administrations are in the process of service delivery and where their potential to improve lies, EIPA is conducting an International Benchmarking Study 2022–2025, in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations of the Netherlands. The study is the fourth edition in a series, following earlier reports in 2004, 2012 and 2015.

The current edition 2022–2025 will analyse, evaluate and compare the performance of public services, their cost-effectiveness and efficiency in 35 countries across 10 policy areas, taking into account the relevant policy context, regulations and mechanisms that have an impact on the success or failure of public services.

The study will also look into the topic of trust and satisfaction of citizens and stakeholders towards public service delivery. The ultimate aim of the research is to provide policymakers with the opportunity to learn about good practices and the most important factors that contribute to the successful functioning of public services and a high level of achievement of policy objectives.