3 research outputs found
Decentralisation in Saudi Arabia. the role of the new system of Provincial Councils with special reference to Riyadh province
The recent rapid socio-economic development in Saudi Arabia has
significantly affected the administrative systems at local, regional and
national levels. The administrative system in Saudi Arabia went through
several stages starting with the administrative system before the unification
of the Kingdom, Omara system, Regional system and the new Provincial
System.
The issue of decentralisation and its role in enhancing developmental
efforts through the processes of delegated authorities is very crucial
nowadys. The present thesis examines the policies of decentralisation, the
decision-making process and developmental issues in the context of the
various administrative systems in Saudi Arabia. After a historical
investigation for the various administrative systems in Saudi Arabia, the
thesis concentrates on the new Provincial System, and its role in raising the
level of the administrative functions and socio-economic development
particularly in the Riyadh province.
The formation of the provincial councils, as a cornerstone of the new
Provincial System, can be considered as a tool for the application of
decentralised policies, and a step forward towards citizen's participation in
the socio-economic development of their provinces, governorates, districts
and localities. The present study discusses the various aspects pertaining to
Riyadh Provincial Council, its composition, members, duties and
responsibilities. The study also discusses the functions of the specialised
committees, and their role in speeding-up the decision-making process of the
Provincial Councils. This research, which is based on a sample survey, concludes that the
new administrative system of Provincial Councils played an important role in
improving and promoting the quality of performance in government organs,
specially when compared with the earlier administrative systems such as the
"Omara System" and the "Regional System". The empirical study shows that
most of the respondents believe that the new Provincial System may broaden
the base of public participation, specially in regards to the issues of local
development. The present study shows that the formation of the Provincial
Councils is a step forward towards decentralisation in Saudi Arabia, and the
inclusion of various professionals namely, scientists, engineers, physicians,
administrators, businessmen and academicians into the Provincial Councils
has broadened the structure of the council. However, the present study shows
that the role of the Provincial Council is a consultative one, and there is no
intention to expand its role to legislative issues, at least for the time being
Recommended from our members
1995 BRAC Commission
Executive Correspondence Tracking System #19 - May 1995 (950519-10 to 950525-24). Box 54, C-010