National-Local Relations: Key Concepts

National-Local Government Relations

Three central concepts:

  • Centralization
  • Decentralization
  • Local Autonomy

Centralization

Authority, responsibility, and ability to perform basic functions are concentrated in a Central Government Unit.

Decentralization

Dispersal of power, authority, and responsibility from the center to lower levels.

Decentralization occurs through:

  • Devolution
  • Deconcentration
  • Privatization

Devolution

Transfer of power from national authorities to lower levels of government.

Example: Local government units regulating and licensing businesses.

Deconcentration

Delegating functions from the central government to lower levels or regional/field units.

Example: Secretary of Health delegating authority to Regional Director to appoint employees.

Privatization / Debureaucratization

Contracting out governmental functions to non-state institutions.

Example: Makati City hiring a private manpower corporation for janitorial services.

Local Autonomy (Brillantes)

The ability of local governments for self-government, requiring:

  • Locally elected officials
  • Well-defined area of responsibility
  • Clear delineation of national-local relations
  • Ability to generate local resources