Understanding work engagement in public administration: A comprehensive bibliometric and systematic review of the past decade

Work engagement is essential for public sector performance, influencing motivation, productivity, and well-being. However, research in this area remains fragmented, with theoretical inconsistencies and methodological limitations. This study integrates a bibliometric analysis and systematic review to synthesize existing literature, identify key antecedents and outcomes, and highlight emerging trends. The bibliometric analysis of 143 Scopus-indexed articles maps research evolution, revealing a surge in engagement studies post-2020. The systematic review of 45 studies identifies 60 antecedents across individual, job-related, organizational, leadership, and environmental domains, along with 22 consequences categorized into individual, behavioral, job-related, and organizational dimensions. Findings indicate a dominance of quantitative cross-sectional studies, with the Job Demand-Resources Model as the prevailing framework. However, gaps persist in understanding generational diversity, digital transformation, and hybrid leadership models. To sustain engagement, public organizations must shift from performance-driven strategies to resilience-based approaches that balance motivation, well-being, and institutional constraints. This study offers a sector-specific interdisciplinary framework that bridges theoretical gaps and informs policy. Future research should incorporate longitudinal methods, hybrid theoretical models, and cross-cultural perspectives to enhance the sustainability of work engagement in public administration.