Regulation of public–private partnerships: the Danish case

Abstract

The Danish government has considered the public–private partnership (PPP) model for major construction and infrastructure projects. But, whereas other countries have embraced PPPs, Denmark has been a sceptic. This article examines why PPPs have not got off the ground: a mixture of regulatory controversies among central government departments and strong public finances (making private finance largely redundant). Two case studies from the schools sector illustrate the regulatory difficulties that public and private partners face when engaging in PPP activity in Denmark. The author concludes that clear regulations are needed to support PPPs.

Acknowledgements

The author wishes to thank all those people, public and private, who have been interviewed for the purposes of this article. Furthermore, thanks to the anonymous reviewers for comments on the first draft of the manuscript.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ole Helby Petersen

Ole Helby Petersen is a PhD candidate at the International Center for Business and Politics, Copenhagen Business School, Denmark.