Exploring the Acceptance of the Public Consumer in Scandinavian Governance: An Essay About Choice as Both a Right and an Obligation

Abstract

In this essay, I critically explore the acceptance of the “public consumer” concept within Scandinavian governance. The rise of neo-liberal policies and New Public Management has significantly influenced current governance models, emphasizing principles of competition and marketisation to enhance public sector efficiency. However, limited attention has been given to the public consumer concept, particularly within the Scandinavian context, despite the region's prominence in adopting new and innovative management techniques. Drawing upon Anglo-Saxon literature and Scandinavian administrative models, I explore why the public consumer concept has been so accepted in Scandinavian governance contexts. I argue that the existence of mixed administrative models has created a fertile ground for accepting the public consumer as a viable actor in Scandinavian governance. This is highlighted by understanding choice as both a right and an obligation. Furthermore, I argue that although the public consumer concept may be attributed to the rise of New Public Management, it is expected that the public consumer will play an even more intricate role as post-New Public Management comes into motion.