közszolgáltatókötelezettség

Közszolgáltatókötelezettség, often translated as public service obligation, refers to a duty imposed on companies or organizations to provide certain essential services to the public. This obligation ensures that vital services, such as utilities like electricity, gas, water, and telecommunications, as well as public transport and postal services, are available to all citizens, regardless of their location or economic status.

These obligations are typically established by law or regulatory bodies and aim to prevent market failures where purely commercial interests might lead to the underprovision or unaffordability of essential services, particularly in remote or less profitable areas. Companies subject to közszolgáltatókötelezettség may receive state subsidies or other forms of support to help them fulfill these duties.

The scope and specific requirements of public service obligations can vary significantly between countries and sectors. They often include stipulations on service quality, accessibility, affordability, and universal coverage. The purpose is to balance the economic efficiency of market-based provision with the social imperative of ensuring that all members of society have access to fundamental services necessary for their well-being and participation in daily life.