The goal of the training was to inform participants on the decentralisation options in the social welfare sector. The presentation and training consisted of the following parts:
- the decisive factor of decentralization,
- conditions for Long-Run Success,
- why Decentralize,
- principles for successful decentralization,
- conceivable negative side,
- various models of welfare policy,
- experiences of various countries and final message.
Although fiscal and organisational decentralization can be an effective means to reduce poverty and provide better services to the poor citizens, it is no guarantee. Local government may know better how to fulfil the needs of its citizens, but without clear divisions of authority and responsibility and adequate incentives for implementing efficient procedures of decision making and mobilising financial resources, there is no chance that decentralization will be successful.