Implementation of Decentralization Principles in Constitutional Law: Challenges and Opportunities in the Era of Regional Autonomy

Abstract

Decentralization is an important instrument in the administration of regional government because it provides local governments with greater authority to manage governmental affairs in accordance with the needs and characteristics of local communities while encouraging increased public participation in governance processes. However, its implementation continues to face various challenges, particularly limited human resource capacity among regional government officials, unclear distribution of authority between the central and regional governments, weak inter-institutional coordination, low levels of transparency and accountability in budget management, and disparities in development among regions. This study employs a normative juridical research method. It argues that the effectiveness of decentralization is not determined solely by the delegation of authority to regional governments, but also depends on institutional capacity, clarity in the distribution of authority, effective supervision, and public participation in the administration of government. The findings indicate that strengthening the capacity of regional governments, increasing public participation, promoting innovation in public services, enhancing coordination between the central and regional governments, and improving transparency and accountability are essential measures for optimizing the implementation of decentralization. By strengthening these aspects, decentralization can contribute to more effective, responsive, and democratic regional governance that is oriented toward improving the quality of public services and enhancing community welfare.