Intergovernmental Relations in Japan: Models and Perspectives

This paper argues that changes in intergovernmental relations in Japan in the post-war period are best understood in terms of an integrationist as opposed to a separationist model. While the latter model emphasizes the benefits of autonomy for local governments and of competition among them, the former stresses the benefits of minimizing coordination problems and building capacity through the sharing of staff and responsibilities among different levels of government. World Bank Institute Copyright © 2001 The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/The World Bank 1818 H Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20433, U.S.A.