Theoretical and Legal Approach to Assessing the Outcome and Efficiency of Public Administration in the Sphere of Scientific and Technological Development of Russia

Introduction. This article presents a theoretical and legal analysis of how the performance and efficiency of public administration in the field of science and technology (S&T) are regulated in the Russian Federation, framing this assessment as a tool for achieving technological leadership. Methodology and materials. The study employs a combination of methods, including the dialectical approach, analysis (comparative, structural-functional, content analysis), synthesis, and systematization, as well as specific legal methods (formal-dogmatic and formal-legal). These were used to examine doctrinal sources, strategic planning documents, and federal legislation on S&T development. Legal modeling and legal-technical methods were applied to substantiate a conceptual framework for the legal regulation of performance and efficiency evaluation, including its core categories and key indicators. Results and discussion. A comparative analysis of doctrinal sources, strategic planning documents, and federal legislation reveals the absence of a unified legal definition for the core concept of “scientific and technological development” in Russian law. The study identifies contradictions in the terminology used across key federal laws and substantiates a conceptual approach to defining public administration in the S&T sphere, its performance, and efficiency. Key problems in the current assessment framework are highlighted, namely: the lack of clear legal regulations for evaluating public administration in the S&T field, and the misalignment of existing performance indicators with the specific goals of S&T development. Conclusion. The authors propose formal definitions of concepts essential for building a legal framework to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of S&T development and its public administration. An analysis of indicators in strategic planning documents demonstrates the need for their revision to focus on ensuring genuine scientific and technological progress — defined as a qualitative and irreversible shift in the state of science and technology that secures Russia’s technological leadership. A revised set of indicators is substantiated accordingly.