Negotiating Universalism in India and Latin America: Fiscal Decentralization, Subnational Politics and Social Outcomes

This book explores how vertical inter-governmental political and fiscal bargains and horizontal variation in political, social, and economic conditions across regions contribute to or undermine the provision of inclusive and sustainable social policies at the subnational level in Latin America and India. It examines the territorial dimension of universalism and highlights the political dynamics that shape fiscal decentralization reforms and the welfare state.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics that shape the provision of inclusive and sustainable social policies at the subnational level in Latin America and India. It explores the complex interplay between vertical intergovernmental political and fiscal bargains and horizontal variation in political, social, and economic conditions across regions. The central question at the heart of this inquiry revolves around the challenge of advancing universal social rights while simultaneously reducing territorial inequalities.

Latin America and India have faced this pressing dilemma for several decades, driven by their commitment to decentralization reforms. However, the balance between local accountability and centralized planning remains a theoretical and empirical conundrum that requires thorough exploration. The chapters in this volume encompass both federal and decentralized unitary states, highlighting common political tensions that exist across these different governance structures, despite the typically greater institutionalization of regional autonomy in federal countries.

Contributors to this book examine the territorial dimension of universalism and delve into the intricate causal links between fiscal transfers, social policies, and outcomes. They shed light on the political dynamics that shape fiscal decentralization reforms and the welfare state, providing valuable insights into the complex processes that govern social policy development in these regions.

The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of "Regional & Federal Studies," a renowned academic journal dedicated to exploring the dynamics of regional and federal governance. This volume represents a significant contribution to the field, offering a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Latin America and India in their pursuit of inclusive and sustainable social policies.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367709419