The Human Resources Problem in Local Government Sports Services: A Comprehensive Review of Current Literature

Abstract

This review study examines sports services in local governments from a human resource–oriented perspective and discusses the decisive role of organizational culture and organizational commitment in shaping the job performance and happiness levels of sports employees. The literature indicates that although local governments possess broad legal authority in the field of sports, these services are often limited to facility development and event organization, while human resource planning, institutional structure, and sustainability dimensions are largely neglected. The fragmented implementation of sports services under different municipal departments, unclear job descriptions, and out-of-field assignments negatively affect the motivation and performance of sports personnel. Within the framework of social municipalism, positioning sports services as an inclusive social policy instrument necessitates qualified human resources and a supportive organizational culture. The findings of the review demonstrate that participatory, fair, and supportive organizational cultures strengthen the organizational commitment of sports employees, which in turn directly contributes to job satisfaction, happiness, and service quality. Consequently, the capacity of local government sports services to generate social impact is enhanced not by physical investments alone but by holistic management approaches that place human resources at the center.