The role of Iocal self-government in local development during post-socialist period :the case study of Bratislava

Abstract

Paper focuses on identification of the extent and main forms of local self-government involvement in local development of Bratislava during post-socialist period. In more general terms, it is depending especially on situation of local economy and condition of local self-government functioning. While the situation of local economy looks promising, the powers and resources of local self-government are limited. Direct economic involvement is strongly related to municipal sector that was strongly reduced after 1989. Participation in selected physical development projects document the second main approach in direct economic involvement. Activities in planning and regulation are studied as main factors of indirect involvement. There are also mentioned some "softer" approaches to the local development addressing local "business climate" and formation of Bratislava as good place for living (with priorities in environmental and public safety). More participation and communication with citizens and non-governmental organisations also improve quality of the development process. Local self-governments cooperate with central state especially in the field of large infrastructure completion