Impact of 18th Constitutional Amendment to 1973 Constitution on Local Government System in Pakistan

Abstract

The 18th Constitutional Amendment to the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan represents a transformative milestone with profound implications for the country's local government system. This amendment, enacted in 2010, aimed to decentralize power from the federal government to provincial and local levels, promoting greater autonomy and strengthening democratic governance. This paper examines the multifaceted impact of the 18th Amendment on Pakistan's local government system, highlighting its legislative, administrative, and financial dimensions. By transferring significant authority to provincial governments, the amendment has facilitated more responsive and accountable local governance structures. However, the implementation process has faced numerous challenges, including political resistance, capacity constraints, and coordination issues among various levels of government. This study analyzes these complexities and assesses the extent to which the 18th Amendment has achieved its goals of enhancing local governance and empowering communities. Through a comprehensive review of legislative changes, administrative reforms, and financial allocations, this paper provides an in-depth understanding of the amendment's impact and its implications for the future of local government in Pakistan.