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Introduction

The Strengths and Weaknesses of Public-Private Policy Partnerships

University of Texas, Houston

In theory, public-private partnerships in many policy sectors are expected to create synergistic dynamics that draw on the strengths and weaknesses of each partner. Evidence from the articles in this issue suggests that this is not always the case. Partnering may, at least in the short term, decrease costs, if cost and efficiency are defined narrowly and externalities are discounted. Despite this advantage, public-private policy partnerships have substantial problems. They do not exhibit superior performance in the criteria of equity, access, and democracy. Rather than reduce regulation, public-private policy partnerships appear to increase it. Regarding accountability, public partners are the providers of last resort, although this could change if private partners gain more experience and partnering moves beyond minimalist forms to more fully developed policy partnerships. In short, public-private policy partnerships are imperfect and in need of refinement and reform. Several articles in this issue provide suggestions for such modifications. Specific recommendations are offered as well.

American Behavioral Scientist, Vol. 43, No. 1, 10-34 (1999)
DOI: 10.1177/0002764299043001002


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