Decentralisation: a framework for analysis

ABSTRACT

This paper attempts to develop a framework for analysis which can be used to measure the degree of decentralisation in a given society. It is contended that there is no universal theory of decentralisation which can be deductively applied. Accordingly, the level of analysis is middle‐range. The article attempts to develop a theoretical framework for analysis which can measure the degree of decentralisation in a given society. Certain indices which can measure decentralisation are identified and examined. These indices are personnel, access, functions, party politics, finance, hierarchical relations and size.