The political economy of decentralization in sub-Saharan Africa : a new implementation model in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Kenya, and Senegal

Abstract: This study examines the overall design of local government financing systems in sub-Saharan Africa. An analytical guide to decentralization is proposed, its purpose being to produce a comparative table for cross-country analysis. The approach is clearly contextualized to each country. Author(s): Dafflon, Bernard; Madiès, Thierry Source(s): , Africa development forum series xxvii, 310 p.,…

Political economy studies: are they actionable : some lessons from Zambia

Abstract: The extent to which political economy studies can guide institutional reforms is examined, using the case of Zambia. One of the examples shows how policy dialogue shaped advocacy measures to facilitate decentralization reform. Author(s): Beuran, Monica; Raballand, Gaël; Kapoor, Kapil Source(s): , Policy research working paper; 5656 17 p Policy research working paper 5656…

The political economy of decentralization reforms : implications for aid effectiveness

Abstract: A general approach to conducting political economy research of decentralization is outlined. It is argued that development partners can benefit from better understanding the motives of politicians and bureaucrats to support or oppose reform at various stages of the decentralization process. Author(s): Eaton, Kent; Kaiser, Kai; Smoke, Paul Source(s): , xix, 92 p., ill.,…

Strengthening citizen demand for good governance in the African context

Abstract: The conceptual foundations for action research to strengthen citizen engagement with the African state and improve governance are presented. The Mwananchi programme works to enhance political leverage for citizens as they engage with their governments at different levels. Author(s): Tembo, Fletcher Source(s): , Working paper / Mwananchi programme, Overseas development institute; 1 vii, 41…

Analysing governance and political economy in sectors : joint donor workshop : 5th-6th November 2009 : workshop report

Abstract: Sector reform and effective service delivery are among the key critical factors for making progress on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and for achieving sustainable and equitable growth. This report summarizes donors’ experiences in sector-level governance and political economy analysis. Author(s): Foresti, Marta; Wild, Leni Source(s): , 17 p. Published: 2009 Overseas development institute…

Political economy of sub-national government

Abstract: The evolution of sub-national government as a means for central government to accommodate or subordinate local power centers is described. Contradictions between formally assigned roles and the actual power that sub-national actors are able to wield are highlighted. Author(s): GSDRC Source(s): , [2] p. Published: 2009 University of Birmingham. Governance and social development resource…

Gerrymandering decentralization : political selection of grants-financed local jurisdictions

Abstract: This article describes a model that shows how decentralization in developing countries may fuel vote-buying, patronage, and pork-barrel politics, especially in political economy contexts that are inimical to organization of citizens for the broad public interest. Author(s): Khemani, Stuti Source(s): , 30 p., ill., tab draft Published: 2009 Columbia university. Initiative for policy dialogue…

Does decentralization enhance service delivery and poverty reduction?

Abstract: Does decentralization enhance service delivery and poverty reduction? Drawing on cutting edge research, expert contributors present new empirical evidence from across the globe. Specially commissioned research focuses on the political economy process and the results of the decentralization process. Author(s): Ahmad, Ehtisham; Brosio, Giorgio Source(s): , Studies in fiscal federalism and state-local finance viii,…

Party politics, social movements, and local democracy : institutional choices in the Brazilian Amazon

Abstract: Although in the past this close relationship between civil society organizations and the ruling party (PT) helped strengthen democracy in Brazil, the current government-NGO alliance runs in fact reinforces centralization and foments neo-corporatist/clientelist practices. Author(s): Toni, Fabiano Source(s): , Representation, equity and environment working paper; 32 iv, 21 p., ill., tabs Representation, equity and…