Local Government in Authoritarian and Backsliding Regimes

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ID: 333039
2026
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Abstract
Abstract Local government, defined as any elected formal subnational institution with some degree of fiscal or administrative autonomy from the center (Hankla and Manning 2017), is often overlooked in the study of authoritarian institutions. In this chapter I provide an overview of a small but growing body of work to argue that local government is an important arena of contestation in authoritarian and backsliding regimes that warrants greater attention. I show that, far from being simply a tool of authoritarian rule, local government is a persistent source of uncertainty for incumbents which must be managed. I draw on evidence from thirty authoritarian and backsliding regimes to propose a strategic toolkit at the local level, conceptualizing the strategies incumbents use to manage this uncertainty and what oppositions can do to capitalize on it. By synthesizing and building on existing scholarship, I contribute a new conceptual framework for understanding local politics. I conclude by pointing to directions for future research.
Reference Key
openalex_W7199912195 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Rachael McLellan
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Journal Oxford University Press eBooks
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/oxfordhb/9780198871996.013.0067
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780198871996.013.0067
Keywords Keywords not found

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