Deconcentration and Decentralization Reforms in Cambodia

Recommendations for an Institutional Framework

Tariq H. Niazi

• Publisher: Asian Development Bank
• Year: 2011
• Print ISBN:
  9789290922650
• Edition: 1
• eBook ISBN:
  9789290923343
• Topic: Politics & International Relations
• Subtopic: Public Affairs & Administration
• Index: Politics & International Relations

This study analyzes strategic and programming issues arising from the emerging deconcentration and decentralization reforms in Cambodia and informs the debate on the pace and strategic direction of these reforms. The study looks at the evolving legal and regulatory framework pointing to the gaps and inconsistencies that need to be addressed for a coherent framework over time. The study elaborates on the large cast of complex, and sometimes competing, institutions and the challenges of setting up an equitable and transparent intergovernmental financing system. Evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the government's 10-year national program, the study suggests some critical steps for successful implementation of the reforms, including the need to develop a clear reform policy framework, obtain better coordination among government agencies and between the government and development partners, clarify uncertainties in the assignment of functions between tiers of government, design a robust system on intergovernmental financing, and develop capacities to implement the reforms. The study also suggests some important considerations for ADB programming, including how to best support the deconcentration and decentralization reforms at the central, subnational, and sector levels.

Table of contents

• Front Cover
• Title Page
• Copyright Page
• Contents
• Tables, Figures, and Boxes
• Abbreviations
• Foreword
• Executive Summary
• 1 Introduction
• 2 Overview of the Emerging Legal and Regulatory Framework
• 3 The Institutional Setting for Deconcentration and Decentralization Reforms
• 4 Intergovernmental Financing and Recent Fiscal Trends
• 5 Policy and Planning Framework for Implementing Reforms
• 6 Critical Issues for Reform
• 7 Strategic Issues for ADB
• 8 Medium- to Longer-Term Programming Considerations
• Appendix 1 Law on Provincial and Municipal Budgets and Asset Management Regime (1998)
• Appendix 2 Law on Commune and Sangkat Administrative Management (2001)
• Appendix 3 Organic Law on Administrative Management of Capital, Provinces, Municipalities, Districts and Khans (2008)
• Appendix 4 (Draft) Law on Financial Regime and State Property Management for Subnational Administrations
• Appendix 5 Schedule of Persons Met
• References