Public Administration, EarlyView.

Abstract The theory of symbolic representation expects that passive representativeness of bureaucrats can heighten agencies' perceived legitimacy and enhance citizen outcomes. Empirical evidence on the consequences of symbolic representation, however, is mixed. By performing a meta-analysis of 286 effect sizes, this study finds a significantly positive,...

Abstract This article explores the conditions that underpin networks as enduring collaborative relationships. To identify key features that sustain long-term collaboration, we use the Norwegian system of emergency management as our empirical case. Norway is characterized by the important role played by volunteers and voluntary organizations as partners...

Abstract Inter-municipal cooperation is often regarded as an alternative to privatizing local public services. But cooperation and privatization can also be combined into a dual reform package in which several municipalities jointly issue contracts relating to multiple jurisdictions. Evaluation of these mixed cooperation-privatization reforms rests...

Abstract In the field of government contracting research, whether and to what extent political ideology drives government contracting has been a subject of ongoing debate for decades. This study conducts a comprehensive meta-analysis, incorporating 418 effect sizes drawn from 68 previous studies spanning over three decades. The findings indicate that...