A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF LOCAL GOVERNANCE SYSTEMS IN EUROPEAN AND LATIN AMERICAN CONTEXTS AND THEIR EFFECTIVENESS

Abstract

This paper compares local governance systems in Europe and Latin America, analyzing how institutional design, fiscal arrangements, and citizen participation shape government effectiveness. Using a comparative framework that evaluates accountability, responsiveness, service delivery, equity, fiscal sustainability, and resilience, the paper synthesizes patterns across countries and provides illustrative cases (e.g., Denmark, Spain, Poland; Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Mexico). Findings suggest that effectiveness hinges less on region and more on the alignment among legal mandates, fiscal capacity, managerial capabilities, and participatory mechanisms. The paper concludes with a practical evaluation matrix and policy recommendations for strengthening local governance performance.