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Future of Government: Brief History

Brief History

How have governments fared in the 21st century? This page looks at a selection of major trends in government’s role and achievements and challenges across several areas: macroeconomic stability, fiscal management, health, education, water and electricity service provision, and redistributing wealth to reduce poverty and inequality - to frame the challenges, conundrums, choices, and opportunities governments now face.

Three Overlapping Crises



Considerable Success



Persistent Problems and Recent Reversals



Context is Key – Expectations Capability and Trust



Five Implications for the Future of Government