Decentralization

Decentralization refers to redistributing governmental authority and power away from the national centre to other levels of government. These levels might be regional, provincial or local. Political actors have considered decentralization as a solution to the problems of many countries—particularly in post-conflict settings.

Decentralization can involve two processes:

1. Assigning sub-national levels of government elements of ‘self-rule’.

This involves giving sub-national government the authority to regulate and/or run certain functions or services on their own (e.g. health care, primary education, etc.).

2. Establishing a system of ‘shared rule’ by involving sub-national government in national decision-making.

This is often done through a second chamber at the national legislature or by providing a list of ‘concurrent powers’ that allows various levels of government to regulate a specific area together.