Germany’s Initiative “für einen handlungsfähigen Staat” recently released a powerful reform report: less bureaucracy, clearer responsibilities, and faster, more capable government. But while the focus is on Germany, the relevance for Austria is hard to ignore.
We’ve seen progress in digitalisation — but have we questioned whether our structures are fit for change?
Too often, fragmented responsibilities, unclear mandates and siloed thinking slow everything down. And civil service rules often reward complexity, not clarity.
💡 What could Austria take away from this?
– Define who is responsible — and fund accordingly
– Pilot real structural simplifications, not just digital fixes
– Modernise internal structures, not just external services
Structural reform isn’t admin housekeeping. It’s what makes delivery possible — and trust in the state sustainable.
📘 The German report offers concrete, courageous ideas Austria should reflect on.
📎 Full report: https://www.hertie-school.org/fileadmin/4_Debate/Debate_Photos_Downloads/2024/Initiative_handlungsfaehiger_staat/20250714_Initiative_Staatsreform_Abschlussbericht.pdf from Hertie School
