Public Enterprises – Old and New Challenges

In this paper, the author analyses rules which regulate public enterprises. The definition of public enterprises is provided after presenting the terminological issues. The paper points out that the existence of public enterprises as a special type of business entities is unnecessary, as well as that coordinated strategy regarding the future of all public enterprises, not only those founded by the state, should be drawn up. Also, the need to harmonize laws is highlighted as well as the necessity of adjusting the rules regarding the organization of public enterprises to the needs of multiple founders. Furthermore, the differences between the rules on the management of public enterprises and commercial companies are described. The author concludes that, in principle, it is necessary to apply general rules to public enterprises as well, whereby any special rules may be stipulated by general or special law. Finally, the issue of gender balance on management and supervisory boards of public enterprises is also examined.