Скачать или смотреть FEDERALISM AND LOCAL GOVERNEMENT ADMINISTRATION Module 10 Local Government Autonomy

Module 10 critically examines the intricate relationship between local government autonomy and intergovernmental relations (IGR) within federal and quasi-federal systems, highlighting the multifaceted challenges and promising prospects inherent in balancing autonomy with cooperative governance. The module aims to provide a thorough understanding of how local governments navigate the tensions and dynamics posed by their constitutional mandates, fiscal dependencies, administrative capacities, and political realities in the context of vertical and horizontal IGR frameworks.
The module opens by revisiting the concepts of local autonomy and intergovernmental relations, framing local governments as semi-autonomous entities that must both assert independence in governance and effectively coordinate with state/provincial and federal tiers to optimize public service delivery and democratic governance.
The module then explores the sources of tension that arise from overlapping mandates, resource allocation conflicts, political interference, administrative centralization, and legal ambiguities in constitutional and statutory provisions governing local governments. It dissects the political economy of local autonomy, including the impact of party politics, patronage systems, and governance reforms on IGR dynamics.
Furthermore, the module evaluates institutional mechanisms and legal frameworks designed to mediate and harmonize intergovernmental relations, such as consultative councils, fiscal commissions, dispute resolution bodies, and joint planning committees. Special attention is given to their effectiveness, limitations, and the challenges of enforcement.
Through detailed case studies from federal countries like Nigeria, India, South Africa, Australia, and Canada, the module compares approaches to balancing autonomy and coordination, highlighting innovative practices, failures, and reform trajectories.
Finally, the module discusses prospects for strengthening local autonomy and improving intergovernmental cooperation in light of global trends like decentralization, digital governance, citizen participation, and fiscal federalism reforms.
Core Themes and Concepts
1. Conceptualizing Local Government Autonomy within IGR Frameworks
Local governments possess political, administrative, and financial autonomy, yet must interact with higher levels of government.


Autonomy is not absolute; effective governance requires cooperation, negotiation, and sometimes concession.


IGR frameworks provide platforms and mechanisms to balance autonomy with interdependence.
2. Sources of Conflict and Tension
Jurisdictional overlaps leading to confusion and duplication.


Resource conflicts, especially over fiscal transfers and revenue sharing.


Political interference from state/provincial governments undermining local elected officials.


Weak enforcement of constitutional provisions and statutory laws.


Administrative centralization that restricts local decision-making.


Capacity disparities creating asymmetries in power and influence.