The Namibia Economist

Confidence creeps back

The private sector in those countries worst hit by the global recession is showing optimism, however the public sectors in many countries are now entering their own recessions as governments battle to control fiscal deficits and spiralling public sector debt. This is according to the PwC Global CEO Survey.
Drawing on the results of the CEO Survey, and adding to it insights from senior government decision-makers, PwC’s Public Sector Research Centre has published its latest report in the Government and Global CEO series entitled Rethinking government: doing things differently.
“Creating the government of the future for the citizens of tomorrow - today - in a more trusted, sustainable and collaborating society” sets out the views of CEOs, including a shared agenda with governments on issues such as health, wellbeing, education and climate change.
It also highlights PwC’s views on how public sector organisations could do things differently to meet the needs of business and citizens.
Jan Sturesson, PwC’s Global Leader Government and Public Services, says: “Clearly, the issue of uncertain growth and fiscal deficits does not apply equally to all countries, particularly in strongly growing economies such as China, India and Brazil. But we were surprised by the degree of consensus internationally on the threat to business arising from the impact of fiscal deficits.”
Nearly two thirds (61%) of CEOs surveyed were concerned about fiscal deficits – including CEOs in countries where governments are not undertaking major austerity measures in their domestic economies (the exception being the Middle East). But there is evidence that business will actively support new government policies that will promote growth that is economically, socially and environmentally sustainable – 72% agreed with this approach.

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