Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0
Handle: RePEc:ida:wpaper:WP2605
Number: WP2605
Creation-Date: 2026-01-29
Length: 35 pages
File-URL: https://repec.ideagov.eu/RePEc/ida/wpaper/WP2605.pdf
File-Format: Application/pdf
File-Function: First version, 2026

Title: Asymmetric Decentralization: Nature and Determinants
Abstract: This paper provides a systematic empirical analysis of the determinants of asymmetric decentralization across a broad cross-section of countries and regions. Using data from the Regional Authority Index (RAI), the authors examine both cross-country and cross-regional variation and assess the extent to which structural factors—such as ethnic fragmentation, population size, territorial diversity, and geographic characteristics—shape asymmetric outcomes. The study finds that geographic, demographic and social variables explain asymmetry more consistently than economic or political factors. At the regional level, distance from the national capital and linguistic distinctiveness are associated with above-average authority. Dynamic analysis shows that transitions to democracy act as catalysts that activate underlying structural conditions, increasing asymmetry over time.

Classification-JEL: H77, H11, R58, C23
Keywords: asymmetric decentralization, multilevel governance, regional authority, ethnic fragmentation, robust regression, territorial diversity

Author-Name: Santiago Lago-Peñas
Author-Name-First: Santiago
Author-Name-Last: Lago-Peñas

Author-Name: María Cadaval-Sampedro
Author-Name-First: María
Author-Name-Last: Cadaval-Sampedro

Author-Name: Jorge Martínez-Vázquez
Author-Name-First: Jorge
Author-Name-Last: Martínez-Vázquez

Author-Name: Ana Herrero-Alcalde
Author-Name-First: Ana
Author-Name-Last: Herrero-Alcalde