Autonomy of Regulatory Authorities in Romania vs. Independence of Regulatory Authorities in France: Comparative Analysis

This research conducts a comparative analysis of the concepts of "autonomous" and "independent" as they relate to national regulatory authorities, with explicit focus on Romanian and French legislation. Given the increasing importance of these authorities in the communications and energy sectors, the analysis begins by examining European legislation that requires their establishment in member states. Through a detailed examination of national legislation, specialised literature, and relevant case law - including decisions from the Court of Justice of the European Union - the study aims to clarify the distinct yet overlapping interpretations of autonomy and independence. The findings will highlight how these concepts affect the effectiveness and accountability of regulatory authorities in different national contexts. The research shows both differences and similarities in the regulatory frameworks of Romania and France, offering insights into how each country manages the complexities of regulatory independence. The analysis concludes with several proposals (lege ferenda) to improve operational collaboration among independent regulatory authorities. These recommendations will emphasise alignment with EU and OECD best practices and provide practical strategies to help countries establish or reform their regulatory bodies. By fostering an understanding of these foundational concepts, this study seeks to make a significant contribution to the discussion on regulatory governance and to support the development of stronger regulatory frameworks across Europe.