Competence | Public Institutions

What is it?

The principle of competence holds that, to perform their functions effectively, institutions are to have sufficient expertise, resources and tools to deal adequately with the mandates under their authority.

Why is it important?

There is an urgent need to develop adequate institutional mechanisms and ensure that competences, skills and behaviours in the workforce are directed to the effective implementation of the 2030 Agenda. In this regard, entities responsible for governance and public administration, including governmental schools and training institutes, play an essential role.

Commonly used strategies

Commonly used strategies include the promotion of a professional public sector workforce, strategic human resources management, leadership development and training of civil servants, performance management, results-based management, financial management and control, efficient and fair revenue administration and investment in e-government.

What are some key insights for governments?

Building responsive, robust and resilient institutions calls for more creative, flexible and integrated ways of working, focused on the needs of people, as well as an adequate stock of competencies and resources, able to be activated in times of crisis. Governments are encouraged to further promote the professionalization of the public sector workforce, invest in digital skills and update competency frameworks for implementation of the SDGs. They are also encouraged to address inequalities within the public sector workforce as well as social inequities in the design and delivery of public services. Such efforts could also help to address questions of legitimacy in the public sector and trust in institutions.