ABSTRACT

In this chapter we examine the case of water supply provision and the World Bank. As in other chapters, we wish to examine the empirical experience of the interaction between the ‘norms’ of multilateralism and those of the market system. What are the terms of engagement of these two systems, and what is the outcome of this engagement in a particular setting? The experience analysed in this chapter is based primarily on Latin America in the last decade, for it is here that the World Bank has most actively promoted involvement of the private sector. But before examining this case, it is necessary to set the scene. What are the special characteristics of the water supply sector – in economic and political/normative terms – by comparison with other sectors? And what are the particular characteristics of the World Bank – in terms of its policies towards the private sector – by comparison with other multilateral organizations?