EC approach to governance as applied to the modernisation of competition policy

Abstract

Purpose

“Re‐shaping” policy provides the opportunity for an inclusive approach to decision‐making in dialogue with existing member‐states and anticipated new members. The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent to which the governance process that underpinned the modernisation of EC competition policy (Council Regulation (EC) No. 1/2003, effective 1 May 2004) can be considered inclusive.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi‐level genre is used to describe EC governance with respect to the implementation of revised competition policy. The process is evaluated through the levels of involvement of the key stakeholders, i.e. firms (national, European and non‐European), consumers, national competition authorities (NCAs), the European Commission, and member states. The main explanatory vehicles relied on are institutionalism governance, policy network analysis and inter‐governmentalist models of governance.

Findings

Multi‐level governance was apparent as member states established national working parties and committees that paralleled similar consultation in Brussels. Good governance was evident through the democratic process that involved interest groups in policy network analysis. Ultimate authority, however, remains vested in the Commission, vouchsafed through legislation and institutionalism.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the small but growing literature that illustrates the complex interaction between governance and implementation of public policy.

Citation

Vindelyn Smith‐Hillman, A. (2006), "EC approach to governance as applied to the modernisation of competition policy", European Business Review, Vol. 18 No. 1, pp. 33-49. https://doi.org/10.1108/09555340610639833