1. Decentralizing Civil Servants Applying the Framework to East Asia
Workshop on Decentralizing Civil Servants
June 9, 2004
Amanda Green
EASPR

2. Applying the framework to EAP
Similar approach
Decentralized staffing model as the “end”
Benchmarking extent of devolution according to specific staffing practices
Similar results
Variations across Big Bang, Incremental and Cautious Decentralizers
Entry points: institutional recognition of local government as formal employer; authority to hire
Sticking points: independent recruitment (local CSC); horizontal mobility; financial authority

3. EAP staffing practices compared

4. Entry points

5. Implications of Administrative Decentralization (1)
Capacity
Individual and institutional
“Success” of decentralization affected by sub-national (and central) governments’ ability to carry out new tasks – key concern of the center
Decentralization places new demands on all levels (planning and financial management; steering vs. rowing)
Incentives
Lack of capacity can instead be lack of motivation
“Success” of decentralization affected by civil service structures and management
Decentralization modifies incentives (closer to the people vs. career mobility)

6. Implications of Administrative Decentralization (2)
Autonomy
Responsiveness argument assumes sub-national authority
Human vs. (direct & indirect) financial resources
Decentralization does not always lead to autonomy
Accountability
“Success” of decentralization affected by strength of accountability framework at sub-national level – key concern of the center
Decentralization modifies accountability (closer to the people vs. closer to vested interests)

7. Trade-offs Design Sequencing
Centralized control vs. decentralized management
Uniformity vs. unification of the civil service
Economies of scale vs. client responsiveness
Sequencing
Capacity first or through decentralization?
Civil service reform before or after decentralization?

8. Issues for consideration
De facto vs. de jure application (China, Indonesia, Philippines)
Stated policy vs. reality of implementation (Thailand)
Dual accountability (China, Philippines, Vietnam)
Core civil service vs. public service units (China)
Level of government (Cambodia, China, Indonesia)
Clarity of functions (Indonesia, China)
Standard position classifications (Philippines, Thailand)
Training: financial responsibility; applicability of content
Data availability: number of staff, wage rates, personnel expenditures as a share of local budgets