Introduction

Abstract

This study explores the understanding of the concept of regulation. The purpose is to approach forms of ordering different from state regulation or non-state regulatory regimes. The main premise lies in the recognition that regulation does not only mean state regulation or the product of a state activity as legitimated authority. On the contrary, it is based on the assumption that regulation is also a domain of civil society. Regulation occurs in many spheres. Diverse regulatory regimes can be encountered. They lead to a fragmentation of regulation whereas the phenomenon of globalization adds to that process. Not surprisingly, we are now experiencing a considerable growth in academic studies on regulation in a range of fields: international relations, political science, law, sociology, or also economics. International organizations such as the OECD and other authorities analyze the process of regulation and may submit proposals for ‘better regulation’ or alternatives to regulation that may represent adequate forms of governance.