Privatization of water and sanitation services: a qualitative analysis in the light of the case of Cachoeiro de Itapemirim, Brazil

The article examines the arguments used to justify and to counter the rhetoric of national and international authors and institutions in favor of private control of sanitation services. From data collected on the experience of Cachoeiro de Itapemirim (Brazil), it concludes that the State was unable to provide quality services to the population, but the concession was not an entirely satisfactory solution for users, because it showed many of the recurring problems in other locations, according to reports in the literature, such as the low participation of the population and the lack of partnerships between the various agencies responsible for water and sanitation services in the municipality. The prioritization of certain areas over others, as well as increases in the amounts of fees charged, are other weaknesses found. Finally, it suggests, alternatively, the search for a less discriminatory management model, guided mainly by a strong and effective social control of decisions.