Part II Realistic problem-solving approaches

Abstract

When the case is put here for the decentralization of government, it should be remembered that this approach has not only assumed considerable importance in theory and practice throughout the world, but is also repeatedly adopted for specific areas of development policy. In some newly industrializing countries too there has already been a change of direction, with major strides being taken towards decentralization (as in Brazil, India, Indonesia and Mexico). A question that has yet to be analysed, on the other hand, is why decentralization has not been consistently and comprehensively sought or achieved for rural development in more than a few instances. Regardless of whether, in the end, a decentralization option in comprehensive or weakened form is pursued (see Chapter 13), it is true to say that realistic problem-solving approaches will be possible only if the following requirements are progressively satisfied in development cooperation: 1 The focusing of government, the business community and society on key areas of development policy, according to whether public tasks or tasks of civil society are concerned; 2 The sequencing of development steps, with clear priorities set; 3 The jettisoning of development cooperation ballast from previous develop- ment decades; 4 The pooling of human and financial resources and the setting of develop- ment policy priorities, combined with new forms of technical support and development financing; and 5 Donor coordination and the creation of opportunities for an international division of labour in development cooperation.