1.2 The EU learning curve on decentralisation, local development and local authorities
EU involvement in matters of decentralisation and local development has gone through a cycle of experimentation and learning by doing to gradually develop a coherent policy framework. This process has been driven by dynamics in partner countries, changes in international thinking and evolving EU priorities in terms of development and governance.
The 4 major phases of the EU engagement strategies in local development
1 (1980 to mid-1990s):
PHASE I: INTERVENING THROUGH DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
- Micro-projetcs
- Rural development programmes
- Support to community groupds, Local non-governmental organisations
NEW WAVE OF (DEMOCRATIC) DECENTRALISATION REFORMS LEADING TO RECOGNITION OF ELECTED LAs
2 (mid-1990s on):
PHASE II (EARLY): PROGRESSIVE RECOGNITION OF LAs AS KEY ACTORS IN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT (mid-1990s on)
Recognition of the mandate and legitimacy of the newly elected LAs i existing micro-porjects and rural development programmes
PHASE II (LATE): INTERVENING THROUGH DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
Link between decentralisation reform and local development lost as focus increases on system support
3 (2005 on):
PHASE III: GROWING RECOGNITION OF LAs IN INTERNATIONAL AND EU AGENDAs
- Revised Cotonou Agreement (2005)
- Creation of the new CSO-LA Thematic Programme (2006)
- First communication on Las (2008)
- Landmark communication on LAs (May (2013)
4 (2013 on):
PHASE IV: RECONNECTING DECENTRALISATION AND DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TERRITORIAL APPROACHES
Unleashing the potential of territories to promote growth, social cohesion and environmental sustainability