On 23 October 2026, the Institute of Public Finance marked the 50th anniversary of its Public Sector Economics journal with an international scientific conference dedicated to the key challenges of management of public finances in today’s economic environment – from fiscal policy and tax reforms to the green transition and the impact of digitalisation and artificial intelligence on the public sector.
The anniversary comes at a time when public finances in Europe and around the world are facing complex fiscal pressures. Growing economic uncertainty, high public debt, population ageing and geopolitical shifts, alongside the demands of the green transition and rapid digital transformation, pose a challenge for governments seeking to reconcile fiscal sustainability with investment in economic growth, the quality of public services and social cohesion.
“This year’s conference is particularly special for us as we celebrate five decades of continuous publication of Public Sector Economics. This anniversary offers an opportunity not only to reflect on the journal’s scientific contributions over the years, but also to open a discussion on how research can assist in addressing the future challenges. Tackling these challenges effectively is essential for long-term economic resilience and public trust. Our aim is to bridge academic research and practice and contribute to the development of public policies that foster a more resilient, efficient and transparent public sector,” stated Vjekoslav Bratić, Director of the Institute of Public Finance, in his opening address.
The opening remarks were delivered by Matej Bule, State Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, followed by a keynote lecture by George Kopits from the European Fiscal Board on good governance in public finance and its importance for the European Union’s fiscal framework. The programme also featured a panel discussion on strengthening good governance in Croatia’s public sector, with Martina Dalić, President of the Management Board of Podravka d.d., Josip Funda, Senior Economist at the World Bank, Goran Šaravanja, Chief Economist at the Croatian Chamber of Economy and Hana Zoričić, Deputy to the Chief State Treasurer.
As part of the scientific programme, researchers from Croatian and international institutions presented papers on the transformation of fiscal policy, environmental taxes, property taxation, the budget credibility of local government units, the sustainability of pension systems, and the application of artificial intelligence and new technologies in public procurement and public sector management.
The conference was supported by the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Croatia, as well as the Association of Cities in Croatia, the Croatian County Association and JANAF.
More information about the programme and presentations is available on the conference website.
Photo: Goran Stanzl