This book addresses the process of decentralization in Italy examined from the perspective of
political parties. In particular it assesses whether and to what extent the dynamics of party
competition are likely to shape policy agenda and affect policy change. The author starts by
providing a thorough account of the process and history of Italian decentralization and the
policy outcomes achieved over time before discussing how party attention to an issue triggers
related policy changes (manipulation of salience). Next the focus shifts to the concrete
positions adopted by parties on decentralization to assess whether the pattern of party
competition has been consensual or adversarial and how this pattern influenced the process of
reform (manipulation of position). Finally the author examines the role of frames in party
competition. This volume offers essential research that will prove useful to a variety of
audiences ranging from scholars of territorial and Italian politics to those interested in
agenda-setting policy change and party politics.
