Employment in the public and private sectors: toward a confusing hybridization process

Abstract

The aim of this article is to provide a better insight into the trend towards hybridization of the public and private spheres. More specifically, its focus is to gain a better understanding of the similarities and differences between employment in the public and private sectors in the wake of recent changes. Public sector reforms within OECD countries have largely been inspired by principles and tools used in private enterprise. Most countries, as a result of financial and budgetary crises, want to modernize their public administration to make it more successful, efficient and effective. Moreover, we are witnessing the development of problem areas which are novel in the public sector, but familiar to the commercial sector. This article accordingly analyses the effects of this trend towards the integration of the public and private sectors in order to show its advantages and limitations for public sector employment.