THE EVOLUTION OF BRAZIL'S BASIC SANITATION GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE AND ITS IMPACT ON DEVELOPMENT: A 1970-2010 ANALYSIS

Abstract

This This article examines the historical trajectory and changes in the governance structure of the basic sanitation sector in Brazil, focusing on the period from 1970 to 2010. The analysis aims to highlight that basic sanitation plays a crucial role in socioeconomic development, influencing urbanization and the living conditions of the population. In the 1970s, the National Sanitation Plan (PLANASA) was implemented as a centralization effort, delegating to the State Basic Sanitation Companies (CESBs) the operation and expansion of services. This model sought to standardize access to infrastructure, driving development. However, the economic crisis of the 1980s resulted in significant cuts in funding for the sector and a stagnation of the advances made. In 2007, with the approval of Law No. 11.445/2007, known as the first regulatory framework for basic sanitation, some changes occurred in the sector, promoting the decentralization of decisions, social participation, and private initiative. Although significant advances have been recorded in water and sewage service coverage, universalization has not been achieved. However, it is possible to observe that the improvements seen in Brazilian basic sanitation are specific and largely occur due to changes in the governance structure.