Decentralised democratic systems

A decentralised system provides the institutional framework that allows national, regional and local governments to interact in an effective manner in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity. This ensures that decisions are being made as close as possible to the citizens.

For a well-functioning system, it is important to have a coherent approach to decentralisation – fundamentally those functions correspond to finances and decision power.

Decentralisation includes:

• Administrative; decentralisation of functions and competencies
• Fiscal: the transfer of financial resources for fulfilling assigned duties
• Political: decentralisation of political authority and decision competences.

A clear vision of multilevel governance systems with shared functions between different tiers according to the varioussub-functions is needed. Horizontal and municipal cooperation is also vital, for example in managing natural resources or infrastructure development.

Effective multilevel governance systems also enhance the outreach and anchoring of national development policies.

The space for self-determination can strengthen loyalty and integration of sub-national authorities which might help ease tensions and overcome conflicts related to power sharing and control over public resources.

According to country contexts, different degrees of decentralisation can be found. SALAR International carefully analyses the country context and existing dynamics. Projects draw on examples and tested methods from Swedish municipalities and regions but do not promote a particular "model" of decentralisation, nor the Swedish system.