Local government plays a critical role in the lives of all citizens, from remote towns to capital cities. As the political legitimacy and importance of municipalities grow, however, it becomes increasingly difficult to strike a balance between local and higher levels of government. The contributors to Local Government in a Global World provide insights into key themes impacting local governance in two federations with much in common historically, culturally, and politically: Australia and Canada.

These essays examine changes in the Australian and Canadian systems through four thematic lenses: citizen participation in government systems, the restructuring and reform of local governments, the use of performance measures and management systems in the administration of local governments, and the relations of local governments within higher levels of governments. Unique in its thematic selection and in its compare-and-contrast structure, Local Government in a Global World provides a valuable reference for those seeking to understand how effective local government is structured and managed.

Emmanuel Brunet-Jailly is an associate professor and co-director of the Local Government Institute at the University of Victoria.

Emmanuel Brunet-Jailly's profile page

John Martin, a Calgary native, is an environmental consultant and the author of 13 climbing guides. He has been climbing in the Rockies since 1963 and developing sport routes there since 1983. John lives in Calgary, Alberta.

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‘The exploration of the connections between globalization and local government is timely given the importance of international influences on the economic, social, and environmental challenges facing governments… The discussion of various theories surrounding governance and reform trends in the two countries offers useful insights on specific country experiences, as well as broader trends and developments in the sector. The editors provide valuable perspective for those seeking more effective ways to enhance the contribution of local governments to the sustainable development of communities.’

Claudia Scott: <em>Commonwealth Journal of Local Governance, Issue 7: November 2010</em>

“Local Government in a Global World is very accessible to practitioners and academic audiences? The editors and authors provide valuable perspectives for those seeking more effective ways to enhance the contribution of local governments to the sustainable development of communities.?

Claudia Scott; <em>Commonwealth Journal of Local Governance</em>: Issue 07: November 2010