Decentralization and local government autonomy have become major features of
reforms in governance over the past two decades. It is argued by policy analysts that
decentralization is a step towards making governments more responsive, efficient and
accountable to citizens as it improves public service delivery and enhances citizens
participation. The results of decentralization, however, have been mixed and
inconsistent across the globe.
This thesis is an attempt to analyze the new local government reforms introduced in
Pakistan in 2001. The study finds that although decentralization has provided a
mechanism for devolving power to the local level, the overall impact on improvement
of public service delivery has been partial.