Democracy and Decentralisation in South Asia and West Africa

This book explores the effects of democratic local councils in four developing countries, assessing their impact on governance and service delivery for marginalized communities.

In Democracy and Decentralisation in South Asia and West Africa, the authors delve into the impact of democratic local councils in four developing nations: Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire, Bangladesh, and India. This comprehensive study evaluates whether the establishment of decentralized governance enhances the popularity, responsiveness, and effectiveness of local administration. The book presents a critical examination of the ongoing discourse surrounding 'good governance', particularly focusing on the benefits that decentralization may offer to marginalized communities.

The authors provide an in-depth empirical analysis of local governance initiatives that emerged in the late 1980s and 1990s across these nations. Through detailed case studies, they investigate key themes such as citizen participation, accountability among politicians and bureaucrats, and the overall performance of governmental systems compared to previous administrative models. This systematic and comparative approach is supported by extensive surveys and fieldwork, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the challenges and successes faced by these local governments.

Ultimately, Democracy and Decentralisation in South Asia and West Africa contributes significantly to the development literature by questioning whether decentralization can indeed lead to improved service delivery for the rural poor and disadvantaged populations. The findings provoke thought on the effectiveness of local governance reforms and their potential to create a more equitable society, making this book a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners alike.