From bustling metropolises to remote rural communities, the estab­lishment and empowerment of local bodies have proven to be a com­pelling recipe for maintaining both economic prosperity and na­tional security. Across the globe, numerous countries have embraced this approach, witnessing first-hand the transformative impact it can have on their socio-economic fabric and security architecture. From the decentralised governance models of Brazil and Germany to the community policing initiatives in Japan and Colombia, local bod­ies have emerged as linchpins in the intricate machinery of gov­ernance, driving progress and resilience at the grassroots level.

Pippa Norris, a renowned political scientist and a professor at Harvard, has comprehensively discussed the role of local body sys­tems in good governance, democratic values, and ensuring human se­curity within societies in her book “Making Democratic Governance Work”. Norris cites the example of Brazil’s Porto Allegre local government which empowered the community to actively engage in decision-making processes, leading to more inclusive and transparent governance. By devolving power to the grassroots level, local body systems contribute to the consolidation of democratic norms and values, as citizens become directly involved in shap­ing policies that affect their daily lives. Moreover, Norris argues that effective local governance enhances human security by addressing socio-economic disparities, promoting social cohesion, and facilitating the delivery of essen­tial services such as education,........

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