The Role of Administrative Consortia in Promoting Local Businesses

ABSTRACT: The present study aims to analyze the role of administrative consortia in promoting local businesses, starting from the analysis of forms of association of administrative-territorial units, with administrative consortia being the most recent form in terms of regulation. The one that has already sparked discussions and disputes in doctrine, based on the way its role and responsibilities are established through the Administrative Code. Although the declared role of creating administrative consortia is to serve the interests of local public administration, some specialists believe that there is a risk that, due to the way they are designed, these consortia might affect certain constitutional principles. Rather than delving into these controversies, this study focuses on the contribution these forms of association can make to the development of local communities—a goal pursued at both national and European levels—as well as on the demands of the regulation. KEYWORDS: forms of association, administrative consortia, local communities, competence, development, local businesses