If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck .....

Calling something by another name may sound a like idea. But in many cases, it only ends up causing confusion.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, trade unionists brought to everyone's attention the negative impacts of unbridled ideologically driven privatisation. The campaign highlighted the definition and scope of privatisation to the point where policy makers no longer wanted to use the word.

So, in true fashion, they started using words and terms like Private-public partnerships, 3Ps, PPPs, rationalisation. At thge end of the day, one has to look very carefully at the structure, scope and reasoning behind the proposed action.

A narrow definition of privatisation
– A transfer of ownership from the state to private companies or individuals

A broad definition
– Transfer of state or public sector functions and responsibilities.

And an even broader definition
– It includes a range of measures otherwise termed commercialisation aimed at introducing more market-like methods, structures and cultures into public activities



Forms of privatisation
• Privatisation of responsibility
• Privatisation of ownership
• Privatisation of provision
• Privatisation of financing
• Commercialisation/marketisation

Private Public Partnerships (also called PPPs or 3 Ps)

Public Private Partnerships (PPP) is the umbrella name given to a range of initiatives which involve the private sector in the operation of public services.

The Private Finance Initiative (PFI) is the most frequently used

The key difference between PFI and conventional ways of providing public services is that the public does not own the asset. The authority/government makes an annual payment (sometimes pro
rated) to the private company who provides the building and associated services, somewhat like a mortgage

Don't let them fool you with the different words and terms. Recognise things for what they really are.

About privatisation

Related documents

Public Services and Private Interests -
http://db.tt/qfjPThxX 

Services publics et interets prives
http://db.tt/4oOycNkC

Origines de la privatisacion
http://db.tt/0GqtfaKR