Public management of innovation – value context and institutional design

Abstract

This article analyzes the perception of innovation and its public management model in a comparative perspective (Spain and Russia). Based on a reinterpretation of data from a representative survey of the Spanish population and an analysis of theoretical approaches by Russian researchers, differences in the value contexts of innovative development are revealed. It is revealed that in Spanish society, innovation is perceived primarily as a tool for ensuring social equality and justice through education, while in Russia, a state-centric model predominates, where innovation serves the purpose of strengthening national security and sovereignty. This value difference determines the expected role of the state, ranging from partner and arbitrator in Spain to primary initiator and controller in Russia. The study confirms the critical role of informal institutions (values, norms, social capital) and public opinion in the formation of an effective national innovation system. The practical implication is that policymakers need to align the innovation agenda with deep-seated societal demands to enhance the legitimacy and effectiveness of public administration.