The European Charter of Local Self-Government (ECLSG) was the first international treaty to recognize local self-government as an institution and systematically regulate its fundamental aspects. As an important conventional text for democracy and political freedoms, the Charter has now been ratified by all member states of the Council of Europe. Its impact on the constitutions and related legislation of both older and newer democracies is evident, as are the notable national jurisprudence that apply its provisions. This practical acceptance is mainly due to the diverse activities of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities in the Council of Europe, as the lack of an international judicial body for the Charter does not facilitate its compliance and uniform interpretation. Based on the relevant texts of the Congress, as well as scientific and jurisprudential dialogue, this book provides a systematic interpretation of all the provisions of the Charter. With regard to its actual implementation in individual states, the 117 official evaluation reports of the Council of Europe on the state of local and regional democracy are utilized. The author concludes that his findings confirm the reciprocal relationship between self-government and democracy, as well as the dual function of the ECLSG as a guiding light and a barometer for local democracy in Europe.
This book can be particularly useful for those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the theory and practice of local self-government throughout the European continent.