Il Management pubblico. Criticità applicative del DDL Merito

Abstract

This paper examines the evolution of Italian public management in light of the main reforms concerning public leadership and performance systems, with particular reference to the strengthening of merit-based principles introduced by the DDL Merito. After reconstructing the regulatory framework — from Legislative Decree No. 165/2001 to Legislative Decree No. 150/2009 and the Integrated Plan of Activities and Organization (PIAO) introduced by Decree-Law No. 80/2021 — the study analyzes the new rules governing access to public executive positions, performance evaluation, and performance-related pay. The paper highlights the main implementation challenges, including the lack of uniform evaluation standards, increased managerial discretion, and the risk of excessive formalization. It ultimately questions whether the reform can effectively enhance public value creation and improve administrative performance. The work concludes by proposing a model of direct access to the role of public management based on transparency, merit, and skills development, aimed at strengthening the efficiency and professionalism of the public administration.