Making public management work in the global economy: lessons from Europe and North America INTRODUCTION

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to present the main themes in this special issue focusing on the impact of transformations in the global economy on public management. Design/methodology/approach - This paper takes the from of a presentation of articles in this special issue, Findings The paper finds that focusing on examples form Europe and North America, public management adaptability varies across states and regions. Capacity is identified as an important indicator of adaptability. Originality/value - The paper introduces an issue that highlights concrete examples of adaptability in public management, It opens the door to further research tracing linkages between changes in the global environment and the practice of public management.