Accomplishments: Local Government

Weekly Update #9 USAID Promotes Local Governance Projects Accomplishments: Local Governance After years of tyranny, Iraqis are participating in local government-laying the foundations upon which a democratic national government can rest. Effective local governance is a vital component, as it encourages citizen participation, fosters dialogue and efficiently delivers essential services. Iraqis are developing the foundations of representative government, which embodies citizen representation, checks and balances and sound democratic principles. Under Saddam Hussein, the autocratic rule of the Ba'ath Party created a legacy of inefficient government that afforded little room for local governments or civil society organizations. The hallmark of a democratic society is the freedom of diverse groups to express their views publicly, educate the public and the government on important local and national issues, and openly debate policy alternatives. Mokhtars from Abu Ghrayek, 1 of 15 subdistricts of the Babel Governate, listen to Dr. Jim Mayfield (not shown) as he describes the basics of democracy and the selection process that will allow for delegates to select 20 members from their communities to a new district council. USAID is working to promote ongoing local governance projects throughout Iraq. (Photo: Thomas Hartwell) The local governance program is now deployed in all 17 governorates and more than 19 million people are engaging in local policy discourse through local government entities and civil society organizations to: Restore basic services; Enhance transparency and participation in local decision-making processes; Improve the effectiveness and efficiency of local service delivery; Establish, develop, and expand the number of civil society organizations that can interact with local government entities. Established an interim structure of government, a Governorate Council, to represent the population in Baghdad and 12 other governorates. Additional local entities include: 25 city councils, 33 district councils, 36 subdistrict councils, and 224 neighborhood councils. 90% of all districts in Iraq are represented by one type of council or another. Awarded more than 1,060 rapid response grants totaling $50 million that have increased Iraqi participation in local government decisions and restored basic services. Established the Iraqi Women in Local Governance Group in response to the challenge of women's gross underrepresentation in political processes across Iraq. The group will develop and guide program activities in order to expand women's participation at all levels. Established a 25-member Babil Governorate Council. The council includes tribal leaders and individuals from professional, trade, and community associations. Working with local governance service departments to plan, budget and manage their resources, along with providing training on transparency and accountability in the use of those resources. For example, the team's work with officials in Dhi Qar resulted in more efficient delivery of public services to over 390,000 residents. The local governance team uses over 600 Iraqi staff, of which 267 are senior and mid-level professionals. Foundation for a New Democracy: Developing Local Governance in Iraq - 11/18/03 (PDF) New Freedom and Opportunities: Founding a New Democracy in Iraq - 11/18/03 (PDF) Transcript: Local Governance Sectoral Conference - 09/30/03 Iraq Update: Developing Democratic Institutions - 09/03 (PDF) Transcript: Local Governance Update - 06/19/03 USAID Unveils Democracy Transition Projects in Umm Qasr, Iraq - 05/29/03 Archived Webcast: Local Governance Sectoral Consultation - 05/06/03 USAID Awards Iraq Local Governance Contract - 04/11/03