Re-defining Public-Private Partnerships: A Contemporary Analysis of Definitions and Frameworks

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) have gained significant attention as a collaborative mechanism to address complex societal challenges by leveraging the combined resources and expertise of the public and private sectors. However, despite their growing prominence, the conceptual foundations of PPPs remain fragmented, with significant variations in definitions, scope, and frameworks across academic, legal, and institutional sources. This paper aims to critically analyze the evolving definitions and conceptual frameworks of PPPs, identify emerging trends, and propose a re-defined framework that aligns with contemporary global challenges. Methodology: This study adopts a qualitative comparative analysis approach, examining the latest definitions and conceptual frameworks of PPPs from diverse sources, including academic literature, legal documents, and publications from multilateral financial institutions, development financial institutions, international non-governmental organizations, and UN agencies. The analysis involves a systematic literature review, qualitative content analysis, and comparative synthesis, culminating in the development of a re-defined conceptual framework for PPPs. Findings: The analysis reveals a lack of coherence in PPP definitions, with significant variations in scope, objectives, and emphasis across different sources. Emerging trends include the expansion of PPPs beyond traditional infrastructure projects to encompass broader policy objectives, sustainability, equity, and digital transformation. Key gaps identified include the lack of robust governance frameworks, accountability mechanisms, and empirical evidence on PPP outcomes. The proposed re-defined framework integrates contemporary global challenges, emphasizing collaborative governance, sustainable development orientation, equitable value creation, digital transformation, and responsiveness to global challenges. Implications: The re-defined framework offers a comprehensive and integrated approach to understanding and implementing PPPs, providing valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers. It addresses the persistent gaps in the literature and institutional definitions, offering a pathway for more effective, sustainable, and equitable public-private collaborations. The paper concludes with a call for further empirical research to validate and refine the proposed framework, ensuring its applicability across diverse sectors and regions.