The 2007 OECD Principles for Private Sector Participation in Infrastructure help governments work with private sector partners to finance and bring to fruition projects in areas of vital economic importance, such as transport, water and power supply and telecommunications. They offer a checklist of policy issues to consider in ensuring that citizens get the services they need at a fair cost and with viable returns to private sector partners.

The Principles can be used for government assessment, action plans and reporting, international co-operation and public-private dialogue, in conjunction with other OECD instruments, such as the Policy Framework for Investment and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.

Building on the Principles, the OECD has also developed practical guidance for governments wishing to engage the private sector in water infrastructure.