What happens if the government fails to manage its public debt effectively?

When the government fails to manage its public debt effectively, the most immediate consequence is the potential for future generations to face a heavier tax burden. If the government accumulates excessive debt without a plan for repayment, it may need to increase taxes in the future to service that debt. This can lead to higher tax rates for citizens, especially younger generations who will inherit the fiscal responsibility.

An ineffective debt management can also impair the government's ability to finance essential services and investments in infrastructure, potentially stifling economic growth. Opposed to an acceleration in economic growth or an improvement in public services, a high level of debt can crowd out private investment as resources become diverted to pay interest on the debt rather than being spent on productive investments. As such, the implication of heavier tax burdens on future generations becomes a significant concern when public debt is not managed properly.