Rethinking Decentralization in the Unitary States

FRANCE
◦ In 2003-2004, 20 years after the great reform 1982,
a new impetus was given to decentralization, still in
the same spirit of consolidation and a search for
balance between central and local powers.
◦ Therefore, France is experiencing a dual delegation
of power: on the one hand to local elected officials,
which is decentralization, and on the other to the
appointed representative in the region, which is
deconcentration.
◦ The Prefect is the agent of the state’s authority and
the delegate of the prime minister and of each
minister in the territory. The Prefect is responsible
for national interests, administrative control and
respect of the law.
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