Federalism & Decentralization: Evaluating Africa's Track Record
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Details
What is federalism and how is it different from decentralization? What are the core ideas behind these concepts? Do federalism and decentralization enhance democracy, governance and diversity? Is that why virtually all countries south of the Sahara are now
either federal or decentralized? We will be looking at Africa's track-record in order to answer these questions.
About the Course
In this political science course you will learn about the twin concepts of federalism and decentralization. You will develop an understanding of the core ideas that federalism and decentralization rest on, and study the building blocks that make them both
work. Following a general overview of both federalism and decentralization, we will examine a number of case-studies from Africa where federalism and decentralization have been changing the continent’s political landscape in the last twenty years, coinciding
with unprecedented levels of economic growth.
During the course’s duration of 6 modules you will be provided with an explanation of the basic concepts and themes in the study of federalism and decentralization and will be given an overall survey of the federal experiences around the globe – particularly
in the developing world. It is especially in the African context that the course will seek to expose some of the important issues around federalism and decentralization.
By the end of the course, you will have acquired a general knowledge of federalism/decentralization and additional empirical knowledge of a number of African cases. Upon completion you will also acquire the ability to unpack and understand a variety of
potential consequences of federalism/decentralization reforms in the developing world.
Recommended Background
Recommended Background
Anyone interested in federalism and decentralization, and how political institutions work in developing countries, is welcome to follow the course. Those with an interest in African politics are particularly welcome. Professionals like civil servants,
journalists and researchers might find the Advanced Track interesting as this is a new developing field of study.
Outline
Module 1: The Three Promises of Federalism and Decentralization
Module 2: Core Ideas in Federalism and Decentralization
Module 3: The Building Blocks of Federalism and Decentralization
Module 4: Federalism in Post-Conflict Societies
Module 5: Decentralization, Democracy and Economic Development
Module 6: Critical Issues in Federalism and Decentralization
Speaker/s
Jan Erk
mr. dr.
Institute of Political Science, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Universiteit Leiden
mr. dr.
Institute of Political Science, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Universiteit Leiden
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