Decentralization

Theme Summary

Decentralization and Local Governance

Exploring models and strategies for decentralizing governance in Somaliland, transferring authority and resources from the central government to regional and local levels. STATELABS conducts research on intergovernmental relations, local government capacity, and fiscal decentralization, providing policy options to achieve more equitable regional development and empower local communities.

Question

Key Questions

How effective are decentralization policies in empowering local governments?

Decentralization policies are examined in terms of how authority, financial resources, and administrative responsibilities are transferred from central to local institutions, and whether these transfers enable meaningful local decision-making.

What institutional capacities are required for effective local governance?

This focuses on the administrative structures, human resources, accountability mechanisms, and coordination systems needed for local governments to function transparently and efficiently.

How does decentralization influence public service delivery at the local level?

This question explores how local governance arrangements affect the accessibility, quality, and efficiency of essential public services delivered to communities.

To what extent are local governance systems inclusive and participatory?

The analysis looks at how women, youth, and marginalized groups are included in local decision-making, planning processes, and community consultations.

How do fiscal decentralization and local budgeting practices shape development outcomes?

This examines revenue generation, budget allocation, and financial management at the local level, and their impact on sustainable service delivery and development.

How can data and evidence strengthen local planning and decision-making?

This focuses on the use of data, monitoring systems, and evidence-based tools to improve local policy formulation, implementation, and performance tracking.

Outputs