The public sector comprises all government agencies and semi-public organizations that, in the general or social interest, are responsible for policy, regulation, essential services, and supervision. Its ecosystem is a broad network of actors—including private companies, non-profit organizations, knowledge institutions, and citizens—who together contribute to the development, implementation, and support of public tasks. Within this ecosystem, the focus is on creating social value, with an emphasis on transparency, inclusivity, fairness, efficient use of resources, and sustainable impact. It is a complex network in which government agencies, public institutions, citizens, and other stakeholders work together and influence each other to serve and protect society.
The Belgian government consists of a federal state, three communities (Flemish, French, and German-speaking) and three regions (Flemish, Walloon, and Brussels-Capital). It is structured according to a complex institutional model in which powers are divided between different levels, each with its own parliament and government.
The government of The Netherlands consists of the national government, independent administrative bodies (ZBO's), provinces, municipalities, water boards. The national government consists of ministries, executive agencies (such as the Tax and Customs Administration), inspectorates, high councils of state, and advisory councils. Independent administrative authorities carry out specific government tasks remotely from the ministry, often with an executive or supervisory role.
The Justice and Enforcement domain is responsible for upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens. This includes various bodies such as courts and tribunals, the Public Prosecutor's Office, the legal profession, police instances, bailiffs, etc...
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are structural collaborations between government agencies and private companies with the aim of jointly realising projects or services that serve a social or economic interest. PPS is often used in complex or capital-intensive projects, such as infrastructure, urban development, energy and innovation, where public interests are safeguarded and private efficiency and expertise are utilised.
Private initiatives with a societal purpose come in many forms, such as professional and membership organisations that represent the interests of businesses. In addition, there are organisations in the circular economy that are responsible for waste management and recycling. Private contractors, who carry out public works on behalf of the government, also play a crucial role with a positive societal impact.
