Regulatory independence safeguards against political interference from "summary" of The Economics of Regulation: Principles and Institutions: Economic principles by Alfred Edward Kahn
Regulatory independence is a crucial aspect of ensuring that regulatory decisions are made in the public interest, rather than being subject to political interference. When regulatory agencies are free from political influence, they are better able to make decisions based on economic principles and the best available evidence, rather than on political considerations or pressure. By being independent, regulatory agencies are able to act in a more impartial and objective manner, taking into account the long-term consequences of their decisions and prioritizing the welfare of consumers and the overall efficiency of markets. This independence helps to build trust in the regulatory process, as stakeholders can be confident that decisions are being made based on sound economic reasoning rather than political expediency. Furthermore, regulatory independence helps to insulate regulatory agencies from short-term political pressures, allowing them to focus on their statutory mandates and the broader public interest. This is particularly important in situations where regulatory decisions may be unpopular with certain political interests, but are necessary to promote competition, efficiency, or consumer welfare. In practice, regulatory independence can take many forms, including insulating agencies from direct political control, providing them with stable sources of funding, and establishing clear mandates and accountability mechanisms. These safeguards help to ensure that regulatory agencies can operate effectively and make decisions that are in the best interests of society as a whole.- Regulatory independence is a cornerstone of effective regulation, allowing regulatory agencies to make decisions based on economic principles and evidence rather than political considerations. By safeguarding against political interference, regulatory independence helps to promote the public interest, foster competition, and ensure the efficient functioning of markets.
