Participatory budgeting in francophone Africa: a comparative perspective between Benin and Niger
Journal of Public Budgeting, Accounting & Financial Management
ISSN: 1096-3367
Article publication date: 3 February 2023
Issue publication date: 23 January 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This research aims to examine the introduction of participatory budgeting (PB) in local governments in two Francophone countries, namely, Benin and Niger, and how local contextual factors influence its practices.
Design/methodology/approach
The research employs a multiple case study design with a comparative approach to analyze the introduction and practices of participatory budgeting across selected municipalities in Benin and Niger. Hopper (2017) and Lassou et al.’s (2018) notion of “pragmatism” within neopatrimonialism is mobilized to analyze the data from sources including interviews and documents. The analysis is conducted at both the country and local government levels.
Findings
Participatory budgeting took roots in a number of municipalities. Its introduction and adoption has promoted participatory governance especially from traditionally marginalized segments of society (e.g. women); albeit to varying degrees, in the face of the prevailing national neopatrimonial context. Furthermore, despite donor's push for a standardized model of PB implementation, actual practices took varying shapes, a consequence of differing local conditions and circumstances.
Research limitations/implications
In terms of limitation, it was not possible to access a number of research participants sought, particularly in Niger. But access to key documents from government, donors and civil society organizations help mitigate this to a large extent.
Practical implications
A major practical implication is the importance of adaptation to local socio-economic contexts and circumstances. As shown in the study, a blanket introduction and implementation of PB across societies based on a standardized model is unlikely to succeed and be sustained in the long run. A great deal of flexibility is required to accommodate indigenous realities on the grounds.
Originality/value
The study contributes to shed light on public sector budgeting regarding participatory budgeting practices in an under-researched setting: Francophone Africa.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors gratefully acknowledge the fundings from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) (Grant No. 430-2018-00851), the World Bank through the Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) Secretariat and Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Benin.
Citation
Lassou, P.J.C., Ostojic, M., Barboza, J.U. and Moses, O. (2024), "Participatory budgeting in francophone Africa: a comparative perspective between Benin and Niger", Journal of Public Budgeting, Accounting & Financial Management, Vol. 36 No. 1, pp. 81-104. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPBAFM-04-2022-0070
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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