Research by Author & Topic

Publications by Carol Rabenhorst on Public Administration & Local Government

This paper presents the findings from a 2003 assessment of the conditions that impede or support minority returns and reintegration in post-conflict Kosovo. The assessment analyzes the status, perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes of groups of internal displaced persons (IDPs) that hinder or promote their successful return and reintegration, and determines the economic, political, and social preconditions that are necessary to create sustainable multi-ethnic communities. The report describes the findings of the assessment team, presents an analysis of relevant issues, and provides specific guidance and recommendations to USAID/Kosovo on how existing and future programs can best support the conditions requisite to successful returns and reintegration.

Though Uzbekistan began privatizing apartments in 1993, by 2002, owners continued to have virtually no control over the operation and management of their property; the local government selected leaders, set maintenance fees, and appointed building managers. In an effort to introduce democratic reforms to housing governance in Uzbekistan, USAID asked UI to conduct a preliminary assessment of the legal and operational status of housing partnerships. This report provides an overview of the institutional climate for introducing housing reforms--examining the legal framework, role of government entities, attitudes towards housing partnerships, and housing-related activities of local NGOs and international donors.

Conducted at the outset of the Urban Institute's Local Government Program in Armenia, this study seeks to determine the status of local government reform and to support design of a 3-year technical assistance program. Findings cover fiscal and administrative decentralization, service delivery and citizen participation, and confirm that local government remains weak and largely ineffective. Causes include an ambiguous legal framework, inadequate authority and revenue to deliver basic services and lack of citizen interest in local governance. The study includes preliminary recommendations to address these problems.