Comparative Analysis of Public Administration Reforms in Kosovo and Serbia

Abstract

Problem. In the context of European integration, Western Balkan countries face the challenge of a gap between the formal import of European Union institutions and standards and their actual administrative effectiveness. A comparative analysis of governance reforms in states with different political statuses (the recognized Republic of Serbia and the partially recognized Republic of Kosovo) presents particular complexity. Both experience common pressure to improve public administration systems but possess different potentials and development trajectories. Methodology. The study is based on a comparative analysis methodology and relies on a unified analytical framework – the "Principles of Public Administration" from the OECD/EU SIGMA (Support for Improvement in Governance and Management) initiative, a joint initiative of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the European Union. The theoretical basis is a synthesis of classical reform paradigms: the Weberian model (building a meritocratic bureaucracy), the concept of "New Public Management" (NPM), and post-NPM approaches, which allows for the identification of hybrid administrative systems. Research Results. It was found that Serbia and Kosovo demonstrate different profiles and stages of administrative transformation. Serbia has achieved greater operational efficiency, especially in the digitalization of services and financial management, while Kosovo's progress is fragmented, with strengths in oversight and regulatory institutions. A key common challenge is the chronic deficit of effectiveness – the gap between adopted strategies/laws and their practical implementation, rooted in the weakness of the civil service and the politicization of personnel processes. Practical Application. The research findings can be utilized by the authorities in Serbia, Kosovo, and international organizations to adjust administrative reform programs. The conclusions indicate the need to shift focus from creating formal frameworks to investing in administrative capacity, depoliticizing the civil service, and developing managerial competencies. The work also offers an analytical tool for comparative assessment of reforms in other countries in the region facing similar challenges and pressures of European integration.