Decentralized Local Governance: Perspectives and Experiences

Menon, S. (ed.) (2008). Decentralized local governance : perspectives and experiences. Hyderabad, India, Icfai University Press. 264 p. ISBN 978-81-314-1656-3
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This book examines diverse perspectives of decentralized governance, the definition and implications of the concept, its genesis and growth in developed and developing countries, various forms of decentralization and the latest trends in the context of LPG (Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization) and changing role of governments. It also analyzes and critically evaluate the effectiveness of decentralization as a system of governance for securing people’s participation in the decision-making process, women empowerment, local leadership creation, economic development, improved public service delivery, local resource management and poverty alleviation. The book further highlights the experiences of some of the models of decentralized local governance, including France, Post-conflict Indonesia and China.

The book is divided into two sections. Section one contains articles dealing with different dimensions and perspectives of decentralization. Section two contains experiences of various countries in decentralized governance.

The book has republished two papers written by staff from the IRC International Water and Sanitation:

“Building Capacity for Decentralization: Case Study from India” written by Kathleen Shordt examines the strategies, techniques and lessons learned from capacity building programme called Scoping undertaken by UNICEF in India for decentralized service delivery at the local level. The case study highlights the fact that local capacity development through joint planning, stakeholder participation and optimum use of local resources are impertinent for the success of decentralized local governance and service provision.
Read the original case study here

“Decentralisation and the Role of NGOs in Combating Corruption in the WASH Sector“, by Bep van Oostrom and Cor Dietvorst, questions the common belief that decentralisation and privatisation of service delivery will lead to greater accountability and transparency.  Case studies from Uganda and India find that more customers of decentralised systems have paid bribes than those of centralized system. Though decentralised and privatised delivery contributes to greater coverage of service, it suffers from sustainability, quality, community ownership and equitable access. The article also highlights some successful experiences in which multipurpose water and sanitation committees of local self-government developed systematic tools for better delivery of services with the help of community monitoring and collaboration with NGOs. Examples are community monitoring in Kerala, community mapping in Uganda.
Read the original paper here.