SPANISH ACCOUNTING REGULATIONS

Abstract

This work aims to analyze the institutional framework of the Spanish accounting reform of 2007. Adopting institutional theory as a theoretical framework, we have identified the pressure groups that have had a significant weight in the reform process and the direct implications of their influence on the White Paper of 2002 and on the General Accounting Plan of 2007. To carry out the analysis, following DiMaggio and Powell's concept of isomorphism, we have classified the different interest groups based on their ability to influence the process . The empirical evidence that supports our research was obtained from the interviews carried out with several participants in the process . _ This information It was complemented with the analysis of official documents and opinions published in the press and in specialized magazines by different actors in the process or people affected by it. Our conclusions suggest the dominance of coercive isomorphism in the reform, at both the national level (the role of the executive, through the Accounting and Audit Institute) and supranational level (mainly the European Commission). We also observe the influence of other regulators, such as the National Securities Market Commission and the Bank of Spain, which, with their experience in their fields of action, played a role of “ leaders ” in the process in an example of mimetic isomorphism . We also appreciate the influence of normative pressures with the participation of different groups of experts (eg, academics). Finally, it is important to highlight the changing and dynamic nature of these influences throughout the accounting reform process.