Catalonia Approves Merit‑Based Public Management Law

The Catalan government has approved a draft law establishing a professional public management model that selects directors on merit and suitability, introduces seven‑year mandates and performance‑linked variable pay of up to 15 % of the fixed salary, and limits dismissal to legally defined causes. An independent body will evaluate selection processes and results, and continuation in office will depend on meeting set objectives.

The proposal, presented by government spokesperson Sílvia Paneque, has been welcomed by the Forum of Entities for the Reform of the Administration (FERA) and business groups such as Cecot, which cite broad social consensus and the potential to improve efficiency, transparency and democratic control of the Catalan public sector. The bill now proceeds to a seven‑day parliamentary debate for amendments and final approval.