CO-GOVERNANCE OF SOCIAL SERVICES: A CASE STUDY OF CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE ADMINISTRATION OF MARIJAMPOLĖ MUNICIPALITY AND NGOS

Abstract

Constructive cooperation between municipal administrations and independent public service providers, including non-governmental organisations (NGOs), establishes favourable conditions for the development and dissemination of best practices in the delivery of high-quality social services. This research aimed to assess the development and effectiveness of cooperation between a municipal administration and NGOs in delivering social services, using Marijampolė municipality as a case study. A qualitative empirical approach, comprising interviews and focus group discussions, was employed. The Stakeholder Relationship Management Maturity (SRMM) model was used to evaluate the level of cooperation. The municipality chosen for the present analysis is distinguished by a substantial presence of NGOs actively delivering services. The research findings indicate that, according to the SRMM model, the maturity of cooperation between municipal administrations and NGOs in providing social services is primarily at the procedural level, whereas relational aspects are evident within the process standardisation dimension. To foster mature cooperation, it is recommended that participants within the cooperation network establish a shared vision regarding the future of social service provision and the role of NGOs. The findings of the empirical research underscore the necessity for participants in a cooperation network to cultivate competencies essential for sustaining and enhancing cooperation (e.g. communication, conflict resolution) and highlight the importance of establishing a unified culture of cooperation.

Keywords: NGOs; social service;, maturity of co-operation; municipality; co-creation; 
provision of public services.