Decentralization, the devolution of authority to local communities and local governments, and partnerships with the private sector can improve the quality of government interventions and also reach the vulnerable and marginalized groups in the population. But there is always a seri- ous risk that the resources of local governments will be captured by spe- cial interest groups. This can negate the objectives of decentralization and community participation and can lead to misuse and misallocation of resources. Checks and balances must be built into the system, with mechanisms of accountability put into place. Social funds should not be considered a newly discovered panacea for all countries at all stages of development
