Planning Challenges and Trends in Asia

de Vila, Vicky (2010): Planning Challenges and Trends in Asia. Published in: Policy paper on urban strategic planning : pp. 43-46.

Abstract

Since the 90s, many central governments in Asia have decentralized fiscal, administrative and political responsibilities to lower units of government and to the private sector. In China, city officials are appointed by the local people’s congresses, but higher levels of government appoint senior local officials. Vietnam is similar to China although major cities have been allowed greater autonomy. The 73rd and 74th Amendment Act of India in 1992 granted constitutional status to the local bodies as the third tier of government. Cities in the Philippines enjoy strong autonomy from the national government. Some countries found decentralization desirable as it brought positive results, eg fiscal reforms, government that is perceived closer to the people, improved delivery of public services and a more engaged citizenry. Decentralization can yield negative effects, however.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Federalism, decentralization, intergovernmental relations
• Subjects: H - Public Economics > H7 - State and Local Government ; Intergovernmental Relations

References

Sharma, Chancal Kumar. 2009. “Emerging Dimensions of Decentralization Debate in the Age of Glocalization.” Indian Journal of Federal Studies Vol. 19 No.1 pp 47–65.

World Bank. 2007. East Asia Project, Sustainable Development on the Urban Fringe, Draft Final Report, January, Halcrow Group Ltd for China, Philippines and Vietnam data