The Principle of Free Administration: Between the Requirements of Autonomy and the Challenges of Implementation

Abstract

In the context of strengthening the decentralization process and consolidating the foundations of advanced regionalization, Morocco has undertaken a series of reforms reflecting the public authorities’ commitment to establishing a territorial system capable of addressing economic, political, and social challenges. These reforms also demonstrate the legislator’s determination to modernize the framework of territorial governance.

Within this framework, the scope of competences of territorial collectivises has been expanded, and they have been provided with the necessary mechanisms and resources to carry out their assigned responsibilities. At the same time, the constitutional entrenchment of the principle of free administration has been established as a fundamental guarantee for strengthening the autonomy of territorial collectivises in their relationship with central authorities, as well as in decision-making and the implementation of development policies.

Undoubtedly, the principle of free administration has become a key lever for promoting local democracy, reinforcing the values of transparency and participation, and enabling territorial collectivises to assume their responsibilities and fulfil their assigned roles, particularly in meeting the challenges of territorial development.

However, the theoretical importance of this principle is contrasted by practical constraints that limit its effectiveness, notably the limited financial and human resources, overlapping competences, and the multiplicity of oversight mechanisms. In this context, a fundamental question arises regarding the nature of this principle: does it represent a genuine transformation in the distribution of power between the centre and the territories, or merely a mechanism for reorganizing territorial action within a centrally structured framework of public policies?

Keywords: Free administration principle, decentralization, advanced regionalization, territorial collectivises, territorial governance, local democracy, territorial autonomy, administrative oversight, overlapping competences, public policies, central control, territorial development.

Received Date: April 21, 2026

Accepted Date: May 12, 2026

Published Date: June 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/723