The so-called GOLD II report, which you can download (including executive summary) here:
http://www.cities-localgovernments.org/gold/gold_report_2.asp
It is dedicated to local finance in the world, and “the growing role of local governments in all regions of the world, and tries to demonstrate the important imbalances that can exist in the sharing of resources and responsibilities between national and local governments, also reinforced by the impact of the global financial and economic crisis.
Additionally, it mentions that local and regional authorities have more responsibilities in service provision, the putting in practice of governmental social policy, environmental management and local development. They ensure between two thirds to a half of the public investment in OECD countries as well as in certain emerging nations –China, South Africa and Brazil.”
However, the report does not mention and assess the role of trade unions in shaping local government policies and finance and the importance of social dialogue to address the challenges of the economic crisis. Moreover, privatization is mentioned as a solution to address the imbalances.
Therefore, I would like to remind you that as discussed during the Riga conference which focused on “re-municipalization” in May this year, it would be helpful to build up our arguments more strongly to collect more examples of re-municipalization and in-sourcing in local and regional government across Europe to continue our discussion in Prague during the Standing Committee.
Looking forward to your feedback,
With kind regards,
Christine Jakob - EPSU cjakob@epsu.org
