Contracting out government services is one of the principal market-type mechanisms applied in OECD Member countries. Its use is increasing in virtually all Member countries as the evidence mounts that contracting out can lead to efficiency gains while maintaining or increasing service quality...

Building on a recent groundbreaking OECD/World Bank seminar, this volume explores whether and how trade liberaliaation can contribute to achieving universal service goals and the types of complementary policies required. It focuses on experiences in four sectors: telecommunications, water and...

"This report presents an overview of country initiatives concerning efficient, effective public services and open and innovative government. It focuses on four core issues: delivery of public services in times of fiscal consolidation; a more effective and performance-oriented public service;...