Federal Government Prioritizes Digitalization to Enhance Efficiency in Civil Service

The federal government has unveiled a comprehensive modernization initiative aimed at boosting efficiency within the national civil service through targeted digitalization efforts. Central to this strategy is the adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), and systematic process improvements to optimize administrative operations while maintaining high-quality public service.

Under the new framework, a significant portion of savings will be realized by not replacing departing staff, particularly those retiring, in the general administrative sector. By 2030, this approach is projected to reduce the administrative workforce by approximately 6 percent, equivalent to around 2,600 full-time positions. These measures are part of a broader government plan to streamline operations while ensuring essential public services remain unaffected.

The anticipated financial impact of the policy is substantial. By 2030, cumulative savings are estimated at 540 million euros, with ongoing annual savings of around 250 million euros in subsequent years. Importantly, 20 percent of these savings--amounting to over 100 million euros by 2030--will be reinvested directly into digitalization projects. This reinvestment is expected to facilitate the implementation of modern digital tools, which will in turn support staff by automating routine tasks and improving overall service delivery to citizens.

Key areas such as education, public safety, judiciary, and the military are explicitly exempt from the reduction measures, ensuring that critical functions and vulnerable groups continue to receive robust support. Similarly, positions for individuals with a disability degree of 60 percent or higher will be protected from staff reductions, maintaining the government's commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility.

To maintain objectivity and fairness in public sector employment, the government will conduct a thorough review of current hiring practices by mid-2026. This review will involve independent experts and employee representatives and will lead to further enhancements in recruitment processes. Planned improvements include the expansion of objective selection criteria, the strengthening of independent elements within selection committees, and the refinement of entry assessments for federal administration candidates. These steps are designed to ensure that merit and qualifications remain the primary determinants in public sector appointments.

The policy also outlines specific annual targets for workforce reduction: a 1.5 percent decrease by the end of 2027, 2.0 percent by the end of 2028, and 2.5 percent by the end of 2029. These reductions are carefully calibrated to align with projected natural attrition rates, particularly among retiring employees, thereby minimizing disruption to ongoing operations.

The federal government emphasizes that the modernization initiative is guided by principles of sustainability, efficiency, and citizen-centered service. By leveraging technological innovations and prudent resource management, the goal is to create a public administration that is both resilient and adaptable to future challenges. The planned investments in digital infrastructure are expected to significantly improve the quality and accessibility of administrative services, while also providing current employees with the tools needed to focus on more complex and value-added tasks.

Overall, the government's digitalization and modernization agenda represents a strategic shift towards a leaner, more efficient, and technologically advanced civil service, ensuring that public administration continues to meet the evolving needs of society while maintaining fiscal responsibility.