Democratizing France

This insightful examination of decentralization reforms in France from 1982 to 1986 highlights significant historical patterns and their impact on governance. Democratizing France provides a thorough analysis.

In Democratizing France, the author delves into the decentralization reforms implemented by the Socialist government between 1982 and 1986. These pivotal changes reshaped the relationship between the central state and local governments, granting increased autonomy and power to territorial authorities. The book not only examines the reforms themselves but also places them within a broader historical context, tracing the evolution of decentralization from the French Revolution through significant periods such as the Third Republic in the 1870s.

Vivien Schmidt employs a unique blend of methodologies, drawing from political sociology and cultural anthropology to provide a comprehensive analysis of these reforms. Through extensive interviews with politicians and civil servants at both national and local levels, she uncovers the practical implications of the reforms on local governance. This approach allows for a richer understanding of how the decentralization efforts were perceived and enacted on the ground.

Furthermore, Democratizing France offers theoretical insights into the changing dynamics of the French state, highlighting historical patterns that have influenced contemporary governance. By juxtaposing the reforms of the 1870s with those of the 1980s, Schmidt illustrates the continuity and change within the political landscape of France, making this work an essential read for anyone interested in the complexities of governance and political reform in a historical context.