There are at least three different views as regards public budgeting: Politicians' view, Economists' view, and Accountants' view. Each group looks at the term from its own point of view, political, economic, or financial. However, according to Wikipedia, public budgeting refers to the process of allocating and managing public funds, typically by a government or other public organization. It involves setting priorities, estimating revenue, determining spending levels, and monitoring the use of funds.
Public budgeting is a complex process that involves many stakeholders and various steps. It serves as a major instrument through which policies are planned, coordinated, and executed. The budget affects not only the immediate distribution of economic resources but also the future prospects for growth and development.
Here are some of the macro elements of public budgeting:
Political Context: Public budgeting is shaped by political decisions made by policymakers, politicians, and other stakeholders. The political context includes factors such as political stability, the ideological orientation of the ruling party, political patronage, and the influence of special interest groups.
Legal and Institutional Framework: The legal and institutional framework of the country determines the rules of the game for budgeting. This includes constitutional requirements, legislation, court rulings, and the institutional setup of the budgeting process.
Economic Conditions: The state of the economy plays a significant role in public budgeting. Economic conditions, such as growth rates, inflation, employment levels, and the balance of payments, influence the amount of resources available for public spending and the distribution of these resources.
Revenue Sources: The sources and stability of revenue significantly impact public budgets. Governments obtain revenue from various sources such as taxes, user fees, and external aid. The mix of revenue sources and their stability affect the amount of money available for public spending.
Expenditure Priorities: Budgets are a reflection of the government's priorities. These priorities are typically outlined in policy documents and strategic plans, and they guide the allocation of resources in the budget.
Budget Process: The budget process includes the steps taken to prepare, approve, implement, and audit the budget. The process often involves multiple stakeholders including politicians, civil servants, interest groups, and the public. The inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability of the process can influence the effectiveness and legitimacy of public budgeting.
Debt Management: Given that many governments operate with budget deficits and debt, strategies for managing debt and borrowing can have a significant influence on public budgets.
Macroeconomic Policy: Public budgets are closely tied to broader macroeconomic policies such as monetary and fiscal policy. These policies can influence and be influenced by the public budget.
Intergovernmental Relations: In many countries, public budgets involve multiple levels of government (national, regional, local). The relations between these levels of government, including the mechanisms for intergovernmental transfers, can significantly impact public budgets.
Public Financial Management (PFM) Systems: PFM systems include the tools, processes, and procedures used to manage public finances. They are crucial for ensuring efficient and effective use of public resources.
Performance Measurement and Evaluation: Increasingly, public budgets are tied to performance measures to ensure that public resources are used effectively and efficiently. Performance measurement and evaluation can shape budget allocations and spending decisions.
Remember, these macro elements can vary greatly from one jurisdiction to another due to differences in legal frameworks, institutional arrangements, political systems, economic conditions, and societal values.
I would strongly recommend that you study one of the internationally renowned textbooks on public finance or public economics. Then your simple question is superfluous!