Institutional Legacies and Governance Models

A Comparative Study of Broadband State Aid in Europe

Bibliographic Data

ID7994511
AuthorsLuís Manica (0000-0002-8395-1754, Iscte – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa), Bruno Damásio (0000-0002-2289-3087, Universidade Nova de Lisboa), Sandro Mendonça (0000-0001-7276-9626, City University of Macau)
Year2025
Volume53
Issue5
Publication date2025-09-15
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenuePolitics & Policy (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1555-5623 • E-ISSN: 1747-1346
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/polp.70069
OpenAlexW4414179289
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited73

This article explores how historical legacies and institutional configurations impact the governance models used in implementing State aid policies for broadband in France, Portugal, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The analysis is based on historical institutionalism, focusing on path dependence, critical junctures, and gradual institutional change. A comparative historical approach shows different governance models evolving due to administrative traditions and political factors. France and the United Kingdom have evolved toward decentralized models, which capitalize on institutional flexibility and strategic reforms. Conversely, Portugal and Spain face limitations from centralized structures and institutional inertia. This study elucidates the relationship between institutional structures and policy outcomes, providing policymakers with insights for addressing digital access disparities. These findings contribute to the public administration literature, emphasizing the role of timing, sequencing, and coordination in the design of effective governance frameworks and preparing for emerging challenges (such as 5G deployment) where State aid will be needed. Related Articles Kanol, D. 2022. “Narrative Strategies for Emerging Disruptive Technologies: A Case Study of Blockchain for Europe.” Politics and Policy 50, no. 5: 952–966. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12492 . Luckhurst, J. 2012. “Governance and Democratization since the 2008 Financial Crisis.” Politics & Policy 40, no. 5: 958–977. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2012.00386.x . Zeng, J., T. Stevens, and Y. Chen. 2017. “China's Solution to Global Cyber Governance: Unpacking the Domestic Discourse of ‘Internet Sovereignty’.” Politics & Policy 45, no. 3: 432–464. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12202

EU Law and Policy Analysis · ICT Impact and Policies · Intellectual Property Rights and Media

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