ABSTRACT
This chapter describes different types of vertical relationships between the national/central and subnational level as influenced by the particular modality of decentralization that has been chosen (i.e. deconcentration, delegation or devolution). It elaborates two broad models of a functional assignment architecture, i.e. the general competence model (also called 'general mandate model') and the 'positive/negative list model', two archetypes of a functional assignment architecture that are found helpful in country experiences. The chapter shows the typical case of devolution, where a law (an organic law for SNG for instance) is used to impart functions from the state to the SNG. Finally, it introduces several typologies of functions, like exclusive, reserved and concurrent functions, obligatory vs optional functions, and residual functions. Having a clear understanding of these typologies and how to use them in functional assignment processes will provide much clarity to the stakeholders involved in these processes and help steer the process in the direction of a stable and workable arrangement.
