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Title ISSUES AND CHALLENGES TO INCLUSIVE/PARTICIPATORY LOCAL GOVERNANCE: A CASE STUDY OF DISTRICT ABBOTTABAD

Author(s) Asma Zahoor

Abstract The study aims to investigate and analyse the issues and challenges to participatory local governance. Participatory local governance is pivotal to sustainable development and citizens empowerment. The study used mixed method approach to address the stated research questions. For this purpose, Hierarchical moderation regression and thematic analysis is used. For the qualitative approach, six interviews were conducted in district Abbottabad and the broader themes and subthemes are identified. For the survey, 300 questionnaires were distributed and 272 were received back. Through the literature, research instrument was developed which was tested for reliability and validity. The findings reveal that the issues are faced through systemic halts such as limited financial resources, lack of capacity, lack of planning and co-ordination. The challenges faced are from the elected representatives as they serve their personal interest, intervene in the working of bureaucracy, lack of knowledge and awareness and the misuse of their authority. Similarly, the challenges posed by the bureaucracy are complexity of rules and procedures, trust deficit, rigidity of the system. Similarly, there are several forums identified for citizen participation in terms of online modes and traditional methods of participation. The factors identified that affect the active engagement of citizens through the mixed method approach are perception of good governance (strong check and balance, transparency, and trust in government officials), responsiveness (includes facilitation by bureaucratic officials, satisfaction with service delivery and ease of access) and the civic awareness which relates to the education and awareness, value of public interests and ownership. The research revealed that the notion of participatory local governance is not good in Pakistan particularly district Abbottabad. It is recommended that the institutional capacity must be enhanced, amend the local government Act, bring reforms in bureaucracy, ensure good governance practices, and enhance civic awareness.

Type Thesis/Dissertation

Faculty Management Sciences

Department Governance and Public Policy

Language English

Publication Date 2021-02-17

Subject Governance and Public Policy

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