Decentralisation and local governance in post-conflict contexts: a practitioner's perspective. Issue 6 (1st November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Narang Suri, Shipra
• Is Part Of: Third world thematics. Volume 1:Issue 6(2016)
• Page Start: 921
• Page End: 927
• Publication Date: 2016-11-01
• Subjects: Decentralisation -- local government -- post-2015 Development Agenda -- equity -- inclusion -- peace-building; Developing countries -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; Developing countries -- Politics and government -- Periodicals; Globalization -- Periodicals; 338.90091724
• DOI: Https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1080/23802014.2017.1370846
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2379-9978

Abstract

Abstract: Local governments have been explicitly recognised in the suite of international agreements, collectively known as the post-2015 Development Agenda. However, in post-conflict, in-conflict or fragile situations, the role of local governments and decentralisation processes more generally becomes even more complex than 'normal' development contexts. In the best-case scenario, decentralisation can be a tool to empower local communities, rebuild trust and transform conflicts. At the opposite end of the spectrum, it can be an instrument of domination or a new avenue for extending and firmly entrenching rent-seeking behaviour, eventually exacerbating conflict. This paper applies a practitioner's lens to the papers included in this collection. It also draws on the author's own experiences, most recently in Myanmar, which is emerging from international isolation, witnessing a huge and rapid economic and physical transformation, yet battling conflicts on several fronts. The role of local governments in this complex landscape is dynamic and rapidly evolving. The paper concludes by summarising the challenges faced by local governments in conflict, post-conflict and fragile contexts, and acknowledges the remarkable mobilisation and sustained advocacy by several local government associations and networks, many of which also came together under the umbrella of the Global Task Force of Local and Regional Governments.