Decentralisation as a post-conflict state-building strategy in Northern Ireland, Sri Lanka, Sierra Leone and Rwanda. Issue 6 (1st November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wall, Gareth J.
• Is Part Of: Third world thematics. Volume 1:Issue 6(2016)
• Page Start: 898
• Page End: 920
• Publication Date: 2016-11-01
• Subjects: Decentralisation -- local government -- post-conflict -- reconciliation -- community cohesion; Developing countries -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; Developing countries -- Politics and government -- Periodicals; Globalization -- Periodicals; 338.90091724
• DOI: Https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1080/23802014.2016.1369859
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2379-9978

Abstract

Abstract: This paper explores decentralisation's contribution to post-conflict state building in four Commonwealth countries: UK (Northern Ireland), Sri Lanka, Sierra Leone and Rwanda. Drawing on insights from senior local government officials, it explores post-conflict institutional arrangements and finds that decentralisation policy has made a significant, if varied, contribution to community cohesion, reconciliation and state legitimacy in each country. In Northern Ireland and to a lesser extent Sri Lanka, quasi-federal structures have enabled peace negotiations through greater autonomy and state legitimacy in the eyes of former separatists. This has however limited further devolution to sub-provincial local councils. In Sierra Leone and Rwanda, decentralisation has had a more developmental rationale. Greater equity in basic local service provision and more inclusive local governance has supported community cohesion and reconciliation in all four countries, though there are capacity gaps and coordination issues with central government agencies. There is evidence decentralisation has contributed to peace in all four countries although in Rwanda the restriction on pluralism has limited local government flexibility to address community needs. The case studies offer key lessons and signpost continuing challenges, which may help other governments to consider what features of decentralisation may work best for their post-conflict political settlement and the socio-cultural dynamics of the communities they serve.