The impact of implementing decentralization on employee engagement : an exploratory study on municipalities of North Lebanon

Abstract

Purpose: This research aims at exploring and investigating the perceptions of various mayors in North Lebanon in order to see what impact implementing decentralization has on the engagement of employees in the municipalities. Moreover, it also aims to explore the employee engagement situation in municipalities now. Methodology: An exploratory, qualitative research method has been used in our research. Moreover, 11 semi-structured in-depth interviews have been conducted with mayors and 6 interviews with employees in the North of Lebanon in order to gather information about our topic. The data collected was then analyzed using the thematic analysis. Findings: Mayors arent satisfied with the current situation and perceive that decentralization is the only solution for improvement. Moreover, mayors state that employee engagement is important on several levels. Furthermore, referring to our conceptual framework, municipal employees are highly engaged in their work. Practical implications: This research can be a reference to different mayors or managers who work in the Lebanese government who are interested in enhancing municipalities performance. Different mayors may use the study to enhance their workforce management. Theoretical implications: This research has added to the body of knowledge of academia. Other researchers can refer to it using the chapters regarding literature review, data and findings. Moreover, this study may attract other researchers to study this topic in different regions in Lebanon.