Principles of Fiscal Decentralization

Unit 1: Overview of Fiscal Decentralization
 
Economic development experts around the world recognize that efforts to generate economic growth and reduce poverty in developing countries are more effective when people have a greater say in how their local institutions—their schools, hospitals and roads—are developed and managed. In many countries, fiscal decentralization reforms are empowering local governments to take a more active role in providing government services.

Through overview readings and lecture presentations, this unit provides an introductory overview to intergovernmental fiscal relations and fiscal decentralization reform. In the first lecture segment, Professor Jamie Boex defines key concepts and considers the relationship between participatory economic development and fiscal decentralization reforms. In the second lecture segment, Professor Roy Bahl considers the advantages and disadvantages of fiscal decentralization.

• An Introductory Overview of Intergovernmental Fiscal Relations  (Jamie Boex - 11 pages)
  Overview Paper: 178 KB  

• Fiscal Decentralization: Alternatives to Centralized Government   (Jamie Boex - 12:02 min)
  Video Presentation: 2.85 MB  
  MP3 Audio Only: 2.70 MB  
  Presentation Slides: 106 KB  
  

• Why Fiscal Decentralization ?   (Roy Bahl - 8:21 min)
  Video Presentation: 3.90 MB  
  MP3 Audio Only: 3.80 MB  
  Presentation Slides: 71.2 KB  
  

• Implementation Rules for Fiscal Decentralization  (Roy Bahl - 30 pages)
  ISP Working Paper: 100 KB  

• Decentralization Briefing Notes  (Litvack and Seddon - 110 pages)
  WBI Working Paper: 648 KB