SN adopts meritocratic administration through open calls for applications

• The BOM SN has implemented a merit-based administration system through open calls for applications.
• This approach ensures equal access to public employment opportunities and promotes transparency in recruitment.
• Several high-profile appointments have been made using this method, including those at OFNAC and ARTP.
• The government is taking a gradual and experimental approach to reforming the recruitment process.
• The adoption of meritocratic administration aims to create a culture of transparency, merit, and performance in public employment.

L'appel à candidature permet de développer ce qu'on appelle la méritocratie. Il garantit un égal accès aux emplois publics.

The Bureau Organisation et Méthodes (BOM) in Senegal has been at the forefront of implementing a merit-based administration system. This approach, which involves open calls for applications to fill key positions, is seen as a means to modernize the public administration and enhance performance. According to Amadou Lamine Sy, the director general of BOM, this method ensures equal access to public employment opportunities and promotes transparency in the recruitment process.

The BOM has already implemented this system for several high-profile appointments, including those at the Office national de lutte contre la fraude et la corruption (OFNAC) and the Autorité de régulation des télécommunications et des postes (ARTP). Sy notes that these appointments were made through independent selection committees, which produced technical reports that were respected by the authorities. This approach is seen as a step towards creating a culture of meritocracy in Senegalese public administration.

However, it's worth noting that this is not a sudden change, but rather a gradual process. The government has opted for a progressive and experimental approach to reforming the recruitment process. As Sy explained, 'Before generalizing a reform, we must first test it.' This phase focuses primarily on independent administrative authorities, which are responsible for regulating sensitive sectors and do not yet have a harmonized legal framework.

The adoption of meritocratic administration in Senegal is part of broader efforts to reform the public service. This development may require lawyers to advise clients on the implications of this change, including potential updates to employment contracts or policies, and ensure compliance with new regulations. The BOM's approach is seen as a way to address issues related to transparency and accountability in government. By promoting merit-based recruitment, the administration aims to attract top talent and improve overall performance.

The French experience with experimenting with performance-based budgeting before extending it to the entire administration serves as an example for Senegal's gradual approach to reform. This phased implementation allows for testing and refinement of the new system before its widespread adoption.

The introduction of meritocratic administration in Senegal has significant implications for the country's public service. By promoting transparency, accountability, and performance, this approach can help improve the overall quality of public employment opportunities. The BOM's efforts to create a culture of meritocracy are seen as essential for attracting investments, promoting employment, and creating wealth. As Amadou Lamine Sy emphasized, 'We need an administration that is performant, with the best skills and expertise.' This development may also contribute to the country's long-term goal of establishing a more efficient and effective public administration.

This development may require lawyers to advise clients on the implications of meritocratic administration, including potential changes to employment contracts or policies, and ensure compliance with new regulations.

Source: Original reporting via Le directeur général du BOM plaide pour une administration plus méritocratique