Research and analysis
We examine the questions that matter most for effective government.
Explore our research and analysis
Using targets to improve public services
Government targets in public services may do more harm than good.
Pressure is growing on Johnson to reset his approach to ethical standards
Tim Durrant is sceptical about whether Johnson will rise to the occasion and demonstrate his commitment to uphold ethical standards in government
Government reform
Michael Gove has set out a new plan for reforming the civil service. But its success must be judged by how long the momentum for reform lasts.
New Atlantic Charter deals with China – without naming it
The new Atlantic Charter signed by Boris Johnson and Joe Biden at the G7 may be a shadow of the original but includes real commitments on defence
Getting Great British Railways on track
The government’s proposed rail reforms lack sufficient detail to guarantee success.
The G7 needs to agree a long-term plan for fighting Covid-19
Sharing vaccines is necessary but not sufficient. World leaders need to take a long view and build health resilience.
A long-term education plan would prevent the short-term Covid recovery fund row
A narrow argument over whether to extend the school day has exposed the Department for Education’s lack of overall vision
Covid-19 futures
In May 2021, the IfG and Wellcome Trust convened two private roundtables on medium- to long-term future scenarios for the Covid-19 pandemic.
Could this be the most successful G7 ever?
The international tax deal brokered for the summit in Cornwall this week is ambitious – and could win agreement