ABSTRACT
Despite assumptions around the ‘inevitability’ of policy convergence based on increased international policy transfer activity in recent years, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that international trends such as New Public Management (NPM) and its off-shoots and public governance have found little traction in many parts of the world. Although it is clear there is greater receptivity by diverse policy making elites to international trends, direct or simple policy transfer in public administration is still a rare occurrence. Even where powerful policy transfer mechanisms are at work through international agencies and consultancy activity, policies are usually adapted to suit local political, economic and social contexts. While instances of simple or direct policy transfer are unlikely, this chapter does assume that rational decision makers seek to learn about innovations and reform solutions from abroad and implement them in their own country with varying degrees of modification.
