Decentred Regulation and Fragile States

This paper uses decentered regulation theory and other frameworks to analyze two Afghan non-state regulatory systems - the mirab institution that manages distribution of irrigation water, and a traditional mediation and conflict resolution process in Kandahar. The relevance of decentered regulation theory itself is also assessed.

The analysis contributes to suggestions for contextually appropriate international development project design, incorporating elements from analysis of hybrid political orders which build upon existing strengths in the society rather than operating in an institutionally ethnocentric mode that is often a feature of international development project design.