Democratic governments face growing pressure from rapid technological change, geopolitical uncertainty, environmental challenges and rising citizen expectations. Addressing these challenges requires deep structural changes in how governments function. Yet institutions and processes are not adapting quickly enough, contributing to persistently low public trust. Despite ongoing reforms, governments increasingly appear “stuck”, struggling to engage, adapt and deliver at the necessary pace and scale.
Government Unstuck shows how governments are overcoming these challenges. Drawing on new OECD data from 40 countries, Government Unstuck identifies cutting-edge practices in digital technology and artificial intelligence, citizen participation, public service capabilities, regulation, procurement and public finance.
Together, these practices shape a coherent vision of a government “unstuck”: simpler, more agile, proactive and connected to citizens. The report sets out an agenda for realising this vision, alongside a new approach to measuring whether reforms are delivering meaningful change in this direction. At a pivotal moment, Government Unstuck provides a compass for strengthening democratic governance, improving the impact of public policies and services, and rebuilding trust.
