About DPPD

Why Decentralisation Matters

Internal conflicts in multi-ethnic and multi-religious states often arise when political, cultural, and economic grievances persist. DPPD promotes decentralisation as a practical framework to reconcile self-determination with state sovereignty, fostering democratic resilience and shared prosperity.

The Problem: Centralisation and Conflict

Highly centralised states can alienate local communities, fueling mistrust and divisions. Decentralisation addresses these grievances by empowering communities, protecting minority rights, and ensuring local participation in governance.

Reconciling Self-Determination & State Sovereignty

DPPD demonstrates that decentralisation allows communities meaningful self-governance while maintaining the unity of the state, balancing the right to self-determination with territorial integrity.

Global Lessons

• Spain: Catalonia & Basque autonomy
• UK: Devolution to Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland
• US & Canada: Federalism and state/provincial powers
• Switzerland & Belgium: Cantonal/federal models for stability
• Bosnia & Herzegovina: Multi-ethnic power-sharing
• Iraq & Philippines: Conflict regions transformed through self-governance

Key Insight

Decentralisation bridges peace and democracy, ending cycles of conflict and reinforcing national stability.