The Reform of Network Industries

Evaluating Privatisation, Regulation and Liberalisation in the EU

Edited by Massimo Florio, Professor of Public Economics, Department of Economics, Management and Quantitative Methods, University of Milan, Italy and Scientific Coordinator, EUsers Jean Monnet Network

Network industries such as electricity, gas, rail, local public transport, telecommunications and postal services are recognised by the EU as crucial for fostering European social and territorial cohesion. Providing an overview of key policy reforms in these industries and an empirical evaluation, this thought-provoking book offers a critical perspective on the functioning of the networks that provide vital services to EU citizens.

‘A book on the reform of network industries is long overdue. This edited volume makes a significant contribution to our understanding of the chain reaction of consequences following such reforms. Massimo Florio continues his impressive work in applied and public economics and has assembled a first class team of authors to research this timely topic. The volume offers an enlightening perspective at the proper level of analysis. The suggested framework allows for a careful and nuanced interpretation of the various cases presented.’
– Luc Bernier, University of Ottawa, Canada

‘It is high time a cross-country, multi-sector analysis of the effects of privatization, regulation and liberalization across the EU was performed, with not just costs, efficiency and performance in mind, but also, welfare, affordability, quality and other impacts on citizens. Finally, all these questions have been brought together in this excellent volume edited by Massimo Florio.’
– Judith Clifton, University of Cantabria, Spain