Promoting effective decentralisation in the interest of the citizen
Decentralistion for good governance and improved service provision One of the key objectives of United Cities and Local Governments and its members is promoting decentralisation processes that develop a democratic system of governance and an adequate basic service provision for, by and with the community.
The basis for an effective decentralisation process Decentralisation process should be based on general principles such as subsidiarity, accountability, transparency, equity, citizenship, predictability and the rule of law, and should be accompanied by the broad devolution of powers and adequate resources.
Ensuring financial autonomy for local governments The transfer of financial resources between the different spheres of government is important for local authorities to carry out their mandate, to develop services but also to ensure capable human resources to serve their citizens. At the same time, the involvement of local governments in decisions concerning their income is crucial.
Lobbying for the adoption of principles of decentralisation by the UN The Guidelines on Decentralisation, produced by the Advisory Group of Experts on Decentralisation (AGRED) established by UN-Habitat, are the fruition of many years of local government advocacy towards a World Charter on Local Self-government. The Guidelines recognise the need for effective decentralisation as a key element of good governance, and as an expression of democratic practice and efficient public administration.
The Guidelines are currently the subject of an international consultation process, and are due to be discussed by the UN-Habitat Governing Council in 2007. UCLG and its members are calling for the Guidelines to be adopted by governments to provide an international framework for decentralisation in the interest of the citizen.
UCLG Global Report on Decentralisation and Local Democracy The first UCLG Global Report on Decentralisation and Local Democracy will be published for the UCLG World Congress in 2007. The report – the first of its kind - aims to periodically assess the progress and possible regression in local democracy and decentralisation around the world. It will analyse trends, seeking to understand them and anticipate the way they may develop in the future.
AGRED
Draft guidelines on decentralization and the strengthening of local authorities
