Ensaios sobre dilemas da regulação econômica por agências no saneamento básico brasileiro

Abstract

This dissertation investigates whether the establishment of regulatory agencies in Brazil’s basic sanitation sector is necessary and beneficial. The analysis begins by acknowledging the sector’s structural deficits and institutional challenges, and examines whether economic regulation—particularly through autonomous agencies—contributes to improving service provision. After discussing the economic characteristics of the sector and the history of public policies, the thesis applies empirical approaches to evaluate the effects of regulation on performance and public health indicators. The findings suggest that regulatory agencies have limited and often statistically insignificant effects. Furthermore, the decision to create these agencies does not always reflect the public interest and may be driven by strategic motivations. The research also highlights the weakness of external control mechanisms, such as municipal sanitation councils, which tend to operate ineffectively. The conclusion is that while regulation remains relevant, its effectiveness depends on institutional conditions and the strength of supervisory instruments.