Research
The RPI undertakes research on all aspects of regulatory policy. Some of this work is self-initiated and supported from general funds, particularly in areas where broad issues arise that may not, at the time, present themselves as 'problems' to any of the participants in specific regulatory processes. A past example of such activity was an in-depth comparative study of ex ante and ex post approaches to regulation. Further examples include research on the undeveloped field of regulation in the health sector, and on the sources of regulatory failure - an issue that, in marked contrast to the enormous volume of material available on sources of market failurea and notwithstanding its very considerable economic significance, has received very little systematic attention.
Most of the research, however, is initiated by grants or contracts to study a defined aspect of public policy. The Institute operates a strict 'public domain test' before embarking upon projects: the RPI must be able to make the results of any study available to the public or, if not, the study must be for a body with a public service remit (such as a government department, regulatory agency, inter-governmental organisation, charity etc.). Dissemination of research results may be via books, journals, discussion papers, reports, and publications section of this website.
Subject to its public domain policy, the research projects are typically initiated in one of three ways:
Organisations interested in promoting, supporting, sponsoring or developing research on aspects of public policy falling within the Institute's area of activities should contact Chris Decker or George Yarrow.
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