I

Introduction

Last year's report looked at several international trends that are having an impact on the role and functions of government and public sector organizations throughout the Western world. A year later, globalization, new information technologies, fiscal pressures and the changing fabric of society remain the primary drivers of reform.

These determinants of change contribute to rethinking the role of government; the relationship between government and citizens; and, by extension, the organization of and the relationships within the public sector. While Western nations are confronted by the same overall trends, each is nevertheless shaping its own agenda for change. Last year's report concluded that, as the role of government is changing, the Public Service of Canada faces three key tasks. A year later, these tasks remain the primary challenges:

• Modernizing service delivery

• Strengthening policy capacity

• Building a vibrant national institution adapted to future needs

This year's report will

• Report progress on realigning the roles and responsibilities of the Government of Canada

• Report progress on the three key tasks identified in last year's report

• Signal further work necessary to ensure that progress continues

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