RT Journal Article

A1 Estrin, Saul
A1 Pelletier, Adeline
T1 Privatization in Developing Countries: What Are the Lessons of Recent
Experience?
JF The World Bank Research Observer
JO World Bank Res Obs
YR 2018
DO 10.1093/wbro/lkx007
VO 33
IS 1
SP 65
OP 102
SN 0257-3032
AB This paper reviews the recent empirical evidence on privatization in developing
countries, with particular emphasis on new areas of research such as the
distributional impacts of privatization. Overall, the literature now reflects a
more cautious and nuanced evaluation of privatization. Thus, private ownership
alone is no longer argued to automatically generate economic gains in developing
economies; pre-conditions (especially the regulatory infrastructure) and an
appropriate process of privatization are important for attaining a positive impact.
These comprise a list which is often challenging in developing countries: well-
designed and sequenced reforms; the implementation of complementary policies; the
creation of regulatory capacity; attention to poverty and social impacts; and
strong public communication. Even so, the studies do identify the scope for
efficiency-enhancing privatization that also promotes equity in developing
countries.
RD 12/13/2020
UL https://doi.org/10.1093/wbro/lkx007