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Evaluating the impact of decentralization on local public management modernization in Croatia

The decentralization process in Croatia began in 2001, but was not fully implemented. Starting from the theoretical postulates indicating that decentralization can influence public management, this paper evaluates whether the „limited decentralization“ had any influence on public management modernization. Public management modernization is conceptualized as the adoption of quality management, goals and performance orientation, market mechanisms and better regulation. Methodologically, the paper relies on interviews conducted in four local units. The results indicate that „limited decentralization“ had no direct influence on public management modernization, but it has produced some improvements in general management. In case of wider transfer of responsibilities and sufficient capacities of local units, the impact of decentralization on local management modernization may be expected.

decentralization, public management, modernization, Croatia, local units

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