Knowledge management in the public sector of emerging economies: a literature review

Yshikawa-Arias J.F.; Arana-Barbier P.J. · International Journal of Business Excellence (2026) · DOI: 10.1504/ijbex.2026.151398

Resumen

This study analyses knowledge management (KM) in the public sector of emerging economies, aiming to identify patterns, gaps, opportunities, and facilitators to strengthen KM practices through evidence-based recommendations. Using a systematic literature review of 23 articles with an integrative and theoretical-empirical approach, it finds that KM enhances innovation and institutional resilience by enabling adaptation to complex and changing contexts, positioning KM as a key strategic tool for improving efficiency. However, technological limitations and restrictive organisational cultures remain critical barriers that hinder knowledge retention and exchange, potentially leading to the loss of key personnel and reduced KM effectiveness. The study contributes originality by examining KM sharing strategies, barriers, maturity levels, retention outcomes, and innovation, emphasising the importance of achieving organisational maturity and identifying future research directions in KM within emerging economies. Copyright © The Author(s) 2026.

Instituciones: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú