Decentralisation of powers or authority is a multi-faceted process related to the organization of governance in the country.
Decentralisation is the transfer of powers, duties, and resources from the central government to lower, local levels of governance.
The greatest advantage of decentralisation is the democratization of the country, greater citizen participation in the decision-making process, increased accountability of authorities, and the accessibility of services to all citizens of the country.
Decentralisation helps authorities respond more promptly and appropriately to the problems and needs of communities.
Local self-government bodies (LSGs) are more accountable to their voters, who fund and consume the services provided by these bodies.
For example, when the management of schools, polyclinics, social services, and other public services is concentrated in the hands of central government authorities, ministries, and their subordinate agencies, which are disconnected from the realities of the communities and often hindered by unnecessary bureaucracy, this creates barriers to the efficient, proper, and targeted delivery of public services.
In the case of decentralisation, the government grants local self-government bodies more authority and resources to deliver these essential services to the residents of the communities.
LSGs, being closer to the people living in the community, have a better understanding of their concerns and needs and can clearly identify priorities, efficiently allocate resources, and implement initiatives that truly meet the needs of the community's residents. Especially in times of crisis, such as war, natural disasters, or pandemics, the limited flexibility of the central government does not allow for an adequate response to changing situations and emerging local needs.
Decentralisation also contributes to economic growth and well-being in communities by providing development opportunities for all areas.
Decentralisation has several other benefits. Being closer to local self-government bodies allows citizens to participate in community life and have a greater influence on the decision-making process of local officials, which can reduce corruption and improve the accountability and transparency of local authorities' work.
Since 2015, decentralisation and local self-government reforms have been implemented in Armenia in several phases.
Currently, the Government of the Republic of Armenia has initiated the process of decentralizing powers and implementing it in practice as a prerequisite for the sustainable development of local self-governance. Specifically, the Government's 2021-2026 program identifies at least four areas with potential for decentralisation of powers:

1․ Primary healthcare 

2․ Use and maintenance of inter-community roads 

3․ Use and maintenance of school buildings

4․ Providing complex social services

In this context, in November 2023, the Government of Armenia approved the "Decentralisation Concept," which is intended to serve as the vision for the development of a detailed strategy and roadmap for decentralisation. The strategy is expected to be ready by March 2025.