As a global professional network promoting inclusive multilevel governance and sustainable localized development around the world, LPSA recognizes the importance of stakeholders having a common vocabulary when discussing issues related to decentralization, multilevel governance, and the local public sector.
The need for a shared understanding of concepts and definitions is particularly pertinent given the global diversity and multidisciplinary nature of the global Community of Practice working on different aspects of decentralization and localization.
With the intent to move towards global consensus on a comprehensive and consistent set of definitions related to decentralization, multilevel governance, and local public sector, this document offers a glossary of key decentralization definitions and concepts.