ABSTRACT
There is a re-definition and a re-specification of role of the subnational sphere of local and regional governments; localities and communities; and associations, groups and individuals currently under way in the Commonwealth Caribbean. Constitutional and legislative change mark this stage of the reform process. This chapter assesses the impact new constitutional and legislative enactments may have on local government. The legislative changes contain values that lay the foundation for institutional change and social transformation – local sustainable development, local autonomy, citizen/stakeholder participation. Their interpretation in law might not be as revolutionary as anticipated. The main argument is that reformers’ efforts to constitute local government as an unequivocal dimension of governing in the Commonwealth Caribbean have been at best exploratory. The conservative character of the institutional superstructure that shapes intergovernmental relations is a more significant determinant in this than a lack of political will to devolve power and authority to local government.
