Structure Of Local Government Research Articles

Promoting sustainable food systems: An empirical analysis of local Food Hub governance models and structures in 12 African settings

Promoting sustainable food systems: An empirical analysis of local Food Hub governance models and structures in 12 African settings

TRADITIONAL GOVERNANCE IN THE COPRODUCTION OF URBAN RESILIENCE: Institutional Enablers and Political Constraints

AbstractBuilding urban resilience in vulnerable global South settlements is a pressing twenty‐first century challenge. Building urban resilience involves addressing institutional deficiencies to mobilize resources for the delivery of urban services and infrastructures. State–civil society partnerships are effective in low‐capacity settings as a step forward in the consolidation of the state, and as an opportunity for the emancipation of vulnerable communities. Coproducing urban resilience requires recognizing marginalized communities (e.g. indigenous groups), their capacity for local problem solving and governance structures for community engagement. In this article, we explore a coalition of five periurban neighborhoods in Oaxaca City (Mexico), which collaborate with the state to address flooding and drought using traditional governance. We argue that, although the recognition and mobilization of traditional governance has enabled the coproduction of public services (adaptation), it has been limited in delivering radical governance transformations. Traditional governance may prevent neighborhood leaders from reaching government positions to secure further resources required for the construction of urban resilience. The article contributes to debates on coproduction, explaining how traditional governance enables the coproduction of infrastructures and service delivery, but is limited in forwarding deep societal transformations necessary for resilience building in vulnerable contexts of the global South.

Broke and Broken: The Crises Facing Local Government in England

AbstractEnglish local government faces a perilous position owing to insufficient funding, structural issues and capacity challenges. Fourteen years of austerity have significantly reduced council budgets, while increased demand for services—particularly adult social care—has strained resources. The current funding system is regressive and fails to incentivise economic growth, and the structure of local government is not fit for purpose due to a focus on unitary authorities, which are sub‐optimal for service delivery. To address these issues, this article proposes a four‐tier system of local government, a more robust funding mechanism and electoral reforms to ensure effective governance and representation.

Community-based education program in Afghanistan: A study of policy and quality of education

Afghanistan continues to grapple with profound challenges in delivering equitable and high-quality education, particularly in marginalized regions, despite concerted efforts to enhance educational access. This qualitative study investigates the policy frameworks and educational quality of community-based education (CBE) programs in two provinces, Nangarhar and Laghman. CBE initiatives are pivotal in mitigating barriers to education in areas beset by enduring sociopolitical adversities. Employing in-depth semi-structured interviews with nine participants—three community leaders, three directors of organizations implementing CBE, and three educators—in conjunction with a rigorous policy analysis, this study evaluates the efficacy and implementation of these programs. The findings emphasize that while CBE initiatives have markedly increased enrollment rates and bolstered community engagement, significant disparities persist in the quality of education and the execution of policy directives. Key determinants such as local governance structures, resource distribution, and cultural attitudes toward education profoundly influence these outcomes. Furthermore, challenges surrounding teacher qualifications, learning environments, and integration with the national education system remain critical concerns. This study culminates in a set of strategic recommendations aimed at refining policy frameworks and enhancing program management to address these deficiencies and advance educational outcomes.

Integration of Islamic Law into Local Governance: the Impact of Datuk Tellue’s Da’wah in South Sulawesi

The Islamization of South Sulawesi, particularly in the Bugis-Makassar hinterland, represents a significant shift in Indonesia's religious and socio-political history. This article highlights the migration of Islamic scholars from West Sumatra to key kingdoms in the region, which contributed to the formation of new Islamic landscapes that were previously recognized only in localized contexts. The integration of Islamic teachings into local governance systems, particularly through Pangngaderreng, succeeded in establishing Islam not only as a religion but also as a foundation for state legislation. This paper examines the da’wah strategies employed by Datuk Tellue, including (1) da’wah bi al-Hal, (2) da’wah bi al-Lisan, and (3) da’wah bi al-Aqd, and their impact on cultural and political dynamics in South Sulawesi. The study reveals how Islam was interwoven with local traditions and governance structures to shape a unique Islamic identity in the region. Furthermore, the establishment of Islamic educational institutions and councils such as Parewa Sara played a critical role in ensuring the continued influence of Islam in South Sulawesi.

Unpacking the drivers and effects of localized flooding in Glefe (Accra) and residents’ autonomous adaptation strategies

ABSTRACT Coastal communities in Ghana face pollution threats from industrial, agricultural, and urban activities. Glefe, which is entirely coastal, is especially vulnerable to these issues, along with tropical storms, rising sea levels, and localized flooding that may result from climate change. The increased demand for land has worsened these situations and attracted a large and diverse body of scholarship. However, residents feel that the local governance structure evokes competing concerns, interests, and ideas, some of which gain traction. This article provides an original and critical analysis of residents’ independent measures to become self-sufficient in facing their vulnerabilities, some of which inadvertently create new hazards. In doing so, it contributes to scholarship on two fronts: First, by exploring the interconnectedness and changeability of the governance structure, the research reveals how poor planning, insufficient stakeholder involvement, inadequate flood infrastructure, and lack of interest from city officials contribute to localized flooding. Second, it adapts the concept of autonomous adaptation to explain and interpret how residents independently respond to these hazards and how their actions sometimes increase their local vulnerability. From a broader perspective, this contributes to understanding relations between individual agencies, organizational behavior, institutions, and social context.

Political Dynamics of the Policy of Moving the National Capital and Reorientation of Indonesian Governance

This study examines the legal, social, and political dynamics surrounding the relocation of Indonesia’s capital city to East Kalimantan, with a focus on the implications for governance, public opinion, and economic development. The study highlights the legal challenges, including issues related to the establishment of the Capital City Authority and its relationship to local government structures, as well as issues of land acquisition and the rights of affected communities. The study also explores the social impacts of the capital city relocation, addressing public opposition related to the high costs, potential social disruption, and perceived injustice, alongside support from certain groups advocating for regional development and economic equity. The study further explores the political implications, particularly the shifting power dynamics in the new capital city region, the influence of political parties, and the importance of transparency in decision-making. Overall, the study concludes that while capital city relocation offers opportunities for more equitable regional development and economic growth, it requires careful legal reform, public engagement, and efficient resource management to ensure long-term success and minimize social injustice. The study’s findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive planning and collaboration among stakeholders to address challenges and achieve sustainable development goals.

Desentralisasi Asimetris Dalam Mewujudkan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat Pada Daerah Otonomi Khusus Papua

Abstract This paper describes the understanding of decentralization that develops into asymmetrical decentralization in special regions that are given privileges by the state, in this case a special autonomous region which will then describe how decentralization in Indonesia towards the Papua special autonomous region related to the form and structure of local government. Asymmetric decentralization is unavoidable as a result of a country that has a special autonomous region because a region that cannot be equated with other regions, so special treatment is needed for local governments in developing the potential of the region. The results of this study show that decentralization is the transfer of authority from the central government to the regions, and asymmetric decentralization itself is the transfer of authority to regions that are special and different from other regions. One of the asymmetrical decentralization to the Papua region is in the form of a regional government system that is different from other regions, where Papua has governing bodies such as the Papuan People's Representative Council, Papuan People's Assembly, and Governor whose position is different from other government bodies.

Strengthening policy engagement when scaling up interventions targeting non-communicable diseases: insights from a qualitative study across 20 countries.

Policy engagement is an essential component of implementation research for scaling up interventions targeting non-communicable diseases (NCDs). It refers to the many ways that research team members, implementers and policymakers, who represent government decision-making, connect and interact to explore common interests. Well-conducted engagement activities foster co-production, local contextualization and assist in the successful translation of research evidence into policy and practice. We aimed to identify the challenges and facilitators to policy engagement during the early implementation phase of scale-up research studies. This qualitative study was focused on the research projects that were funded through the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases in the 2019 round. Nineteen project teams opted to participate, with these studies implemented in 20 countries. Forty-three semi-structured stakeholder interviews, representing research, implementation and government were undertaken between August 2020 and July 2021. Transcripts were open-coded using thematic analysis to extract 63 codes which generated 15 themes reflecting both challenges and facilitators to undertaking policy engagement. Knowledge of the local government structures and trusting relationships provided the foundation for successful engagement and were strengthened by the research. Four cross-cutting concepts for engagement were identified and included: (1) the importance of understanding the policy landscape; (2) facilitating a network of suitable policy champions, (3) providing an environment for policy leaders to genuinely contribute to co-creation and (4) promoting two-way learning during researcher-policymaker engagement. We recommend undertaking formative policy analysis to gain a strategic understanding of the policy landscape and develop targeted engagement plans. Through engagement, researchers must facilitate cohesive vision and build a team of policy champions to advocate NCD research within their networks and spheres of influence. Ensuring equitable partnerships is essential for enabling local ownership and leadership. Further, engagement efforts must create a synergistic policymaker-researcher lens to promote the uptake of evidence into policy.

Local Body Election in Tamil Nadu - A View

This article examines the evolution and current structure of local governance and election practices in Tamil Nadu, tracing back to the historical Uravai system of village councils, where community-elected elders adjudicated local disputes. With roots in ancient Tamil society, local self-governance evolved significantly under the reign of Tamil kings, particularly during the Chola period, where the Kudavolai system—a forerunner to modern democracy—allowed villagers to select council members for self-administration. Following independence, the Indian government initiated reforms to decentralize governance, notably through the Balvantrai Mehta and Ashok Mehta Committees. These committees advocated for a three-tier rural governance model, later enshrined in the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments. Tamil Nadu, aligning with these democratic principles, enacted the Panchayat Act in 1994, establishing a modern framework for local elections with distinct advancements, including reserved seats for women to enhance political inclusion. The article highlights how Tamil Nadu’s local governance structure, blending historical customs with contemporary democratic reforms, promotes public welfare through elected municipal bodies, demonstrating progressive strides in gender representation and local political participation.

Societal Adaptation to Pandemic Challenges: Analysing the Role of Local Governance and Healthcare Systems in Madhya Pradesh

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges, compelling communities globally to adapt rapidly to protect lives and maintain societal functions. This study examines the role of local governance and healthcare systems in Madhya Pradesh in addressing these challenges and fostering societal resilience. Drawing on quantitative data from government health agencies and qualitative insights from community feedback, this research explores how local governance structures facilitated public health response, resource allocation, and pandemic preparedness. Findings indicate that decentralized decision-making and robust healthcare infrastructure were instrumental in managing health crises, providing essential services, and supporting economic resilience at the grassroots level. Key results show that regions with stronger local governance exhibited a 30% lower infection rate compared to less governed areas, while areas with well-resourced healthcare systems saw a 20% higher recovery rate. Resource distribution, however, varied significantly, with urban areas receiving 60% more medical supplies than rural regions, creating disparities in healthcare access. Data analysis revealed that healthcare facilities that integrated digital solutions, such as telemedicine, were able to serve 45% more patients remotely, mitigating the risk of virus spread and reducing hospital overload. The study identifies the need for capacity-building initiatives, infrastructure strengthening, and data-driven decision-making to enhance future pandemic preparedness. Future prospects include continuous training programs for healthcare workers, increasing community awareness of health protocols, and leveraging technology for real-time data monitoring. These insights contribute to a comprehensive framework for building resilient healthcare systems in Madhya Pradesh, better prepared for future public health crises.

Exploring the Nexus between Endogenous Development and Local Economic Development: The Experience of Tamale Metropolis in Ghana

This paper explores the relationship between Endogenous Development (ED) and Local Economic Development (LED) in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana. ED emphasises locally driven initiatives that leverage indigenous knowledge, resources, and cultural practices, while LED focuses on promoting economic growth and sustainability through local-level collaboration. The study examines how ED practices, such as community- based agricultural activities and cooperatives, contribute to local economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion in Tamale. It also identifies key challenges, including weak governance frameworks, socio-cultural barriers, and limited access to finance, which hinder the effective integration of ED into broader LED strategies. Despite these obstacles, opportunities exist to strengthen the synergy between ED and LED through enhanced community participation, capacity building, and public- private partnerships. This paper argues that aligning ED with LED offers a sustainable development model that can address both economic and social challenges in the region. Recommendations for policymakers include improving local governance structures, fostering inclusive development policies, and creating supportive environments for community-driven initiatives. The findings highlight the need for context-sensitive development strategies that empower local communities to take ownership of their development pathways while contributing to sustainable economic growth.

Aligning local governance with SDGs: a study of local government systems in Pakistan

ABSTRACT This study examines the experiences of local government councilors between 2013–2020 in four provinces of Pakistan. The study addresses three key questions: Firstly, it investigates the differences and commonalities in the local government structures across provinces and explores the potential for synchronization to enhance the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the local level. Secondly, it examines the main challenges local councilors face in effectively delivering basic services, including water, sanitation, health, education, waste management, and transport, within both rural and urban contexts. Lastly, the study analyses the necessary changes or reforms at the provincial level within the existing local government system in rural and urban areas to ensure the delivery of basic services in alignment with SDGs. The findings reveal that a powerful bureaucracy and political influence at the intermediate to upper levels of the government hierarchy exert significant control over administrative, fiscal, and political.

The Introduction of Local Government in Mtubatuba: A Threat to the Local Traditional Authorities?

The events leading to the 1994 general elections marked a major turning point in the history of South Africa. The new dispensation saw the introduction of new legislation that would see traditional leaders ‘losing’ their powers to the newly established local government structures. The government’s White Paper on Local Government 1998 offered a new vision of a post-apartheid society, embodied in the concept of developmental local government. As a result, territories previously controlled by the traditional leaders would be divided into municipalities, each governed by an elected municipal council. This paper uses a combination of archival sources such as newspapers, minutes of the committee meetings and other written documentary and oral sources drawn from in-depth interviews with local leaders, traditional leaders, and local people from the area. It argues that the incorporation of remote traditional areas under the jurisdiction of traditional leaders in the newly formed municipalities threatened the powers of traditional leaders and complicated the jobs of newly elected councillors, as they were expected to go through izinduna for any project to be successfully launched. This was the case mainly in instances where a local traditional leader and a councillor belong to different political parties.

John Major’s politics of place: a new look at english local government reform, 1990–1997

ABSTRACT This paper argues that instead of being a minor policy, Conservative reforms to the structure of English local government in the 1990s were central to John Major’s government and to his idea of Conservativism and Englishness. Major believed that restoring the 39 English historic counties as local government areas could revive the Party’s electoral fortunes by connecting with traditionalist voters in the ‘Tory shires’ and could also facilitate privatisation at a local government level. These reforms failed because Major’s government failed to understand that voters were far less interested in reviving historic counties as local government areas than they were in efficient, inexpensive services. The collapse of local government reform indicates that neoliberal economic reform and traditional English cultural conservatism could not be reconciled as part of government policy.

Prioritising animals for Yirralka Ranger management and research collaborations in the Laynhapuy Indigenous Protected Area, northern Australia

Context Amidst growing international calls for inclusive conservation and a backdrop of declining species and cultural diversity, Indigenous-led approaches that offer opportunities for biocultural benefits are of growing interest. Species prioritisation is one area that can be decolonised, shifting from quantitative, large-scale threatened species metrics to pluralistic, place-based approaches that include culturally significant species. Aim This study aimed to establish a list of priority animals of concern to Ŋaḻapaḻmi (senior knowledge holders) in the Laynhapuy Indigenous Protected Area, north-eastern Arnhem Land, Australia. This list could focus the research and management efforts of the Yirralka Rangers and collaborators. Methods Adhering to local governance structures, through six group-elicitation sessions, Ŋaḻapaḻmi were asked to identify animals of concern and describe reasons for concern. Existing occurrence records and threat status of these species were compiled to assess baseline data and guide next steps. Results The Ŋaḻapaḻmi-defined Laynhapuy Priority Animal List contained 30 animals (species/groups), with the highest-ranked animals including Marrtjinyami wäyin (walking animals), Rupu (possums), and Djanda (goannas), all mammals and varanid lizards. The list of 30 animals included 43 species from a Western-science perspective, of which 12 were also listed as threatened through Western conservation frameworks. Some animals were considered high priority locally, such as the waṉ’kurra (northern brown bandicoot, Isoodon macrourus), although not a concern from a Western-science perspective, demonstrating mismatch between local and larger-scale approaches. To help disentangle whether this mismatch is due to cultural significance and/or localised decline not captured at larger-scale assessments, we provide the animal’s publicly known Yolŋu clan connections and reasons for concern alongside existing baseline occurrence data. Recent collaborative surveys have substantially increased data for Laynhapuy Priority Animals, demonstrating the benefits of community engaged wildlife research. Conclusions Multidisciplinary research collaborations can produce Indigenous-led ‘working’ lists of priority animals to guide culturally attuned on-ground action. Approaches that draw on different cultural knowledge systems require interrogation of how knowledge is created and conveyed to ensure mutual comprehension and practical use. Implications Indigenous-led approaches offer possibilities for enhanced management of species by local groups, with anticipated co-benefits to species and cultural knowledge.

The Impact of Political Stability on Regional Economic Growth in India: A Comparative Study of State-Level Development

This study explores the intricate dynamics of Indian politics, focusing on the interplay between historical legacies, electoral processes, and socio-economic factors shaping contemporary governance. As the world's largest democracy, India offers a unique perspective on political evolution influenced by colonial history, diverse cultural contexts, and rapid economic changes. The analysis covers the historical foundations of India's political system, the impact of major political parties and leaders, and the role of elections in determining policy outcomes. Key areas of focus include the influence of caste and religion on voting behavior, the effects of political campaigns and media, and the evolution of political alliances. The study also addresses current challenges such as corruption, governance inefficiencies, and the impact of globalization on domestic politics. Findings indicate that while India's democratic institutions are resilient, significant disparities in political representation and governance persist, highlighting the need for reforms to enhance transparency and address socioeconomic divides. This examination provides valuable insights into the complexities of democratic governance in a diverse and rapidly evolving society. Additionally, the study underscores the role of regional politics and local governance structures in shaping national policies. It highlights how regional parties and state-level leaders influence broader political trends and contribute to the complexity of India's federal system. By incorporating these perspectives, the analysis offers a comprehensive understanding of how local and national forces interact, shaping the overall political landscape of India

The ERMES chatbot: A conversational communication tool for improved emergency management and disaster risk reduction

The ERMES chatbot: A conversational communication tool for improved emergency management and disaster risk reduction

Indigenous-led designation and management of culturally significant species.

Indigenous peoples globally are actively seeking better recognition of plants and animals that are of cultural significance, which encompass both species and ecological communities. Acknowledgement and collaborative management of culturally significant entities in biodiversity conservation improves environmental outcomes as well as the health and wellbeing of Indigenous people. The global diversity and complexity of Indigenous knowledge, values and obligations make achieving a universal approach to designating culturally significant entities highly unlikely. Instead, empowering local Indigenous-led governance structures with methods to identify place-based culturally significant entities will yield culturally supported results. Here we used a structured decision-making framework with objectives and biocultural measures developed by Indigenous experts, with the aim of prioritizing place-based culturally significant entities for collaborative management approaches on Bundjalung Country in coastal eastern Australia. We found some congruence and some important differences between culturally significant entities priorities and management compared with the colonial focus of threatened species management underpinned by current laws and policies. We provide reproduceable methods and a demonstration of successful local culturally significant entities designation and prioritization in an Australian context that highlights opportunities for Indigenous leadership, supported by governments in the designation and management of culturally significant entities.

Local environmental organizations and long-term investor value appropriation

Local environmental organizations and long-term investor value appropriation