Abstract:

In this paper we analyze the definitions and legal understanding of two key concepts: public interest and public good, both in the context of Romanian contemporary society and public administration and in relation with the notion of personal interest. Even though the concept of public interest is very used in order to justify certain decisions taken in the Romanian public administration system, it remains a mysterious notion as it is not always clear what it really consists of. We refer at public interest in opposition with private interest and we try to identify the main characteristics of the notion and how it should be applied by the authorities and respected by the people, members of the communities. We feel that it is necessary that the population is better informed and consulted more often in order to make sure that the decision are taken correctly and with authentic respect for the public interest. We shall explore in the paper the most effective methods to reach this purpose.