The rediscovery of public intervention in the economy: The strategic role of local public services
Journal title ECONOMIA PUBBLICA
Author/s Auretta Benedetti
Publishing Year 2026 Issue 2026/1
Language Italian Pages 18 P. 77-94 File size 277 KB
DOI 10.3280/EP2026-001004
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The article analyzes the transformation of local public services in the post-pandemic context, marked by the moving past of the neoliberal dogma centered exclusively on market regulation. The author highlights how recent crises have renewed the need to discuss the strategic responsibility of the State and local authorities. They can no longer play the role of mere correctors of market failures, but must be seen as guarantors of social cohesion and redistribution. Through an analysis of Legislative Decree 201/2022, the paper therefore aims to highlight the ‘subjective dimension’ of public service: an activity defined as such by the public entity’s assumption of political responsibility toward constitutional goals of equality and environmental protection. Furthermore, the study examines the balance between economic efficiency and social effectiveness, critically evaluating models such as management by optimal territorial areas, strategic procurement, and public service obligations. The article formulates and supports the thesis that the market must return to being a tool subordinate to the supreme goal of creating public value and human dignity.
Keywords: local public services, social cohesion, efficiency and effectivenes
Jel codes: L98, L33, I38
Auretta Benedetti, La riscoperta dell’intervento pubblico nell’economia: il ruolo strategico dei servizi pubblici locali in "ECONOMIA PUBBLICA " 1/2026, pp 77-94, DOI: 10.3280/EP2026-001004