Public Administration in a Global Context: Bridging the Gaps of Theory and Practice between Western and Non-Western Nations

This article identifies existing gaps of theory and practice in public administration between Western and non-Western nations. By placing national bureaucracies within a global context, the article develops a framework that can be applied to bridge the gaps, improve the cumulation of knowledge in public administration, and enhance the relevance of theory for practitioners. Based on the framework, the article hypothesizes ways in which global pressures such as continuously advancing information technology, the impact of global institutions, and demands for public-sector efficiency influence public bureaucracies. It concludes with guidance for future research and implications for practice.