ASYMMETRIC DECENTRALIZATION IN ROMANIA: LOST OPPORTUNITY

This article endeavors to investigate if asymmetric decentralization should still be considered a solution for continuing and deepening the sectoral decentralization process in Romania in the context of growing inequalities and differences among various types of local administrative units. In close connection with asymmetric decentralization, the article explores the most significant challenge associated with this concept, mainly how to measure administrative capacity. This research effort is placed in the context of recent changes to the framework law on decentralization no. 195/2006 which introduced this concept. The main research questions are: a) What is the level of administrative capacity in Romania, measured using the criteria established in the methodological norms for the implementation of the framework law no. 195/2006?; b) Are there any weaknesses with respect to the measurement systems and if yes, what are some of the options for improving the assessment criteria?; c) Is asymmetric decentralization, decided based on the assessment of administrative capacity, regarded by the Romanian local authorities as a positive thing? Secondary data analysis and interviews were used as the main research methods. Based on the main findings it can be argued that the proposed criteria allow for a rather uncomplicated separation of local authorities in two categories (haves and have-nots), however additional criteria should be developed/included. As with regard to asymmetric decentralization, the majority of individuals in key administrative positions at the local level see it as a limitation of local autonomy and as a rather unnecessary innovation in the framework of the Romanian administrative system.