A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) on the Connection between New Public Management and Policy Capacity

Abstract

New Public Management (NPM) and policy capacity (PC) are key concepts in public administration, yet their relationship remains underexplored. This paper conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) following PRISMA guidelines to examine how NPM influences PC, using sources from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The review reveals three main findings: (1) NPM can erode aspects of PC, (2) NPM may enhance PC if carefully implemented, and (3) existing PC supports successful NPM reforms. These findings highlight a complex, context-dependent relationship that warrants further empirical research to inform effective governance and public sector reform.