Yerel Yönetişimde Kent Konseyleri: Küresel Deneyimler ve Türkiye Örneği

In contemporary governance, decentralization of authority is essential for addressing local issues and creating region-specific projects. However, it is not limited to this; with globalization and modernity, efforts to enhance the visibility of micro-existences from all classes through pluralistic policies have gained importance, not only by the election of governing elites. Participation, which is a prerequisite for existence and legal capacity, is evident in city councils, which serve as an example of democratic governance. Raising awareness and expanding the scope of city councils’ activities are key considerations within subsidiarity. City councils will be emphasized in terms of their role in ensuring equitable distribution of national welfare, exercising rights, governance, and social acceptance. This study aims to analyze the emergence of city councils, their practices in different countries, their similarities and differences, and their role in governance. Using a comparative analysis method, the study investigates the advantages, challenges, and legal transformations faced by city councils. The findings show that city councils strengthen participatory democracy, but face structural and legal barriers in practice. Various models have been developed in different countries regarding their relations with local governments, areas of authority, and decision-making processes. Strengthening the legal framework, expanding participation mechanisms, and involving more actors in governance are essential to enhancing the effectiveness of city councils.