DECENTRALISATION, CONSTITUTIONAL LAW, AND THE STRENGTHENING OF MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY: INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Decentralisation is increasingly recognised as a cornerstone of contemporary governance, connecting democratic participation, public service delivery, and sustainable development. Constitutional provisions are central in determining municipal independence. However, differences in political, legal, and cultural contexts produced varied outcomes globally. This research examined the connection between constitutional law and municipal empowerment based on comparative international experiences. A comparative qualitative design was utilised, basing itself on constitutional documents, municipal legislation, policy reports, and academic literature. Case studies covering Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa were chosen to reflect a diversity of governance patterns. Data were analysed by themes in order to evaluate the performance of constitutional assurances, fiscal terms, and judicial interpretations in influencing decentralisation outcomes. Findings revealed that federal systems ensured municipalities with structural autonomy, whereas unitary systems necessitated explicit assurances to guarantee decentralisation. European Union member states exhibited more robust municipal empowerment, emerging democracies showed partial safeguards, and developing nations were subjected to weak protections. Judicial activism proved to be a determining factor in strengthening municipal powers, whereas fiscal reliance and low administrative capability restricted effectiveness. Decentralisation succeeds when supported by constitutional guarantees, fiscal autonomy, and institutional safeguards. The recommendations included consolidating constitutional guarantees, building municipal capacity, and fostering citizen engagement. Research in the future should investigate digital governance, smart cities, and the role of decentralisation in social equity.