Table 1.

Determination of the independence of regulatory authority

TypeDimensionKey questions to ask
FormalStatus of the head or management of the organisationWho appoints the head and how long is the term of office? Is the appointment renewable? Is the independence of the organisation a requirement in terms of law?
 Relationship with elected politiciansIs the independence of the organisation formally stated? What are its formal obligations? Under which conditions can its decision be overturned?
 Financial and organisational independenceWhat is the source of income? Is the organisation in charge of its internal processes and does it formulate its policies?
 Competencies delegated to the authorityIs the organisation empowered to do its work without fear or favour or prejudice?
De factoFrom politiciansPresence of many veto players and old age (de facto independence can be enjoyed when the agency is old and when there are many role players)
From regulatesParticipation in European network of agencies

Source:

Modified table by the author; Giraldi and Maggetti (2010) 

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