Reflections on public financial management in the Covid-19 pandemic

Ian Ball

Journal of Accounting & Organizational Change, 2020, vol. 16, issue 4, 655-662

Abstract: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to reflect on competence in the management of government, with a focus on the management of public finances. I also reflect on the role public financial management (PFM) can play in addressing the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Design/methodology/approach - The approach in this paper is to document my thoughts and opinions on PFM in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings - Competent bureaucrats and sound finances are the key drivers of an effective PFM system that enables and encourages decisions leading to high standards of financial performance and position. Practical implications - Although this is purely a personal reflection on the issue covered, it may encourage other academics and practitioners to explore the idea further in various settings across the globe. Originality/value - Having devoted my academic and professional career to the field of PFM, this personal, reflective essay considers the role of PFM systems in generating information that leads to better decisions, better financial performance and position and ultimately a greater ability to absorb shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Keywords: New Zealand; Accrual accounting; covid-19; Public financial management; Governments; Financial performance (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:jaocpp:jaoc-10-2020-0160

DOI: 10.1108/JAOC-10-2020-0160

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