Administrative Decentralization and Political Conflict in Mali

Abstract

The authors discuss the relationship between decentralization and conflict, focusing on the local level. They address the dangers that accompany decentralization, particularly the potential for new ethnic conflicts, or the revival of old ones. Before exploring the situation in Mali, the authors present an overview of scholarship on decentralization and the effects of colonial regimes on the African state. Their discussion of Mali includes a detailed description of Mali and an analysis of the Malian government preparation for and implementation of decentralization.