Leadershipul adaptiv ca vector de transformare a culturii organizaționale în sectorul public al Republicii Moldova [Articol]

Abstract

This article examines the role of adaptive leadership in transforming the organizational culture of the public administration in the Republic of Moldova within the context of European Union integration. Building on the distinction between technical and adaptive leadership, the paper highlights the latter’s capacity to address complex challenges through collective learning, internal mobilization, and the management of systemic tensions. Organizational culture is por trayed as a key factor in the success or failure of reforms, shaping behavior, motivation, and institutional openness to change. The analysis is supported by international case studies, such as Georgia and Hungary, which offer valuable lessons for countries in transition or in the process of consolidating democracy. The Moldovan case is explored through an applied lens, focusing on the digitalization process led by the e-Governance Agency, which illustrates both the strategic initiatives and the cultural barriers that have hindered reform implementation. Based on this analysis, the article provides recommendations for developing leaders with adaptive mindsets, promoting a culture of accountability, and building interinstitutional networks capable of suppor ting open and resilient governance. The conclusion emphasizes that in the absence of adaptive leadership, reforms remain fragmented and fragile, and Moldova’s alignment with EU standards risks becoming merely formal.