The role of the administrative decentralization system in realizing the health of the administrative system

Abstract

In recent decades, many nation-states have sought to design or reform their systems for delegating and devolving authority to their local units. Decentralization is an interdisciplinary topic that intersects with law, political science, and public administration. Iran, following and emulating prevalent international models—most notably the successful French model of decentralization—has attempted to delegate administrative, political, and legislative powers, or more precisely "empowerment," in many local matters to local units such as councils. Despite numerous challenges, including ethnic nationalism and governmental policies, some successes have been achieved. One of these achievements, which is the primary focus of the present article, is combating administrative corruption. This article, using a descriptive-analytical method and through the study and review of various sources, aims to explain the aforementioned approach to decentralization and the administrative decentralization system as an optimal model of local democracy in combating corruption and enhancing the integrity of the administrative system. Thus, the main question of this research is: What impact does the administrative decentralization system, as an optimal model of local democracy, have on combating corruption and enhancing the integrity of the administrative system? Considering various dimensions of the issue and emphasizing the multiple ambiguities highlighted by the author, including structural and competency barriers, the lack of formulated executive principles, and challenges related to the central government's oversight of local governments, the findings of this study indicate that the administrative decentralization system, by reducing the size of administrative organizations, on one hand, reduces opportunities for corruption and, on the other hand, clarifies responsibilities and aligns the administrative system with the intended tasks. These factors facilitate the processes of control, oversight, and inspection, thereby enhancing the integrity of the administrative system.