The Logic of Public–Private Partnerships: The Enduring Interdependency of Politics and Markets

Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) have excited the political world over the past few decades. Few books, however, have viewed them as both a phenomenon of politics as well as a technical matter aiming to better deliver public infrastructure. Through fiercely independent scholarship, this book investigates the various logics of PPPs. In doing so, it challenges those involved in delivering public infrastructure to think more about power, language and politics in decision-making.

The Logic of Public–Private Partnerships takes a cross-disciplinary perspective on PPPs. It notes their global popularity, and considers the varying definitions used and policy positions taken by different governments. It discusses the contemporary, international evidence supporting and opposing the formation of these partnerships, with reference to efficiency, value-for-money and governance. The simultaneous growth of PPPs in some countries is observed along with their demise in others. The book also articulates the solid reasons for which governments might adopt PPPs, before pointing to continuing research priorities.

This book will be useful for academics interested in PPPs and infrastructure governance, as well as professionals in the infrastructure sector and practitioners seeking to understand the PPP phenomenon. It will also be an invaluable tool for undergraduate students with an interest in infrastructure projects, and postgraduate students studying PPPs and the issues surrounding them.