The unwarranted embrace of decentralization

ENAR

Ever since the beginning of the Arab Spring in 2011, pundits and so-called experts have been making declarations about “what’s wrong” with the region and “what’s next” in terms of solutions. While most of these theories are spoken and soon forgotten, one in particular has gained momentum: the idea of reforming public administration through decentralization. The motives behind this seasonal migration toward decentralization that are most often touted relate to economic development. However, more importantly, decentralization is usually presented in the context of protecting ethnic, religious and cultural minorities — a claim easier made than actually proved. It is worth remembering that similar justifications (e.g. protecting minorities) were the same cards many dictatorial regimes played around the region for decades. Syria is just one example.  [pullquote]A weak central government can’t protect minorities or enforce national law if local entities are provided with more power, especially in fragile Arab Spring countries.[/pullquote]