cumulated, then it is d iff icul t to change them. Cases in pair t 145 E/ECA/CM.9/5 are educational and medical systems in modern societies, which may gradually become more expensive and elitist and progressively fail to promote general social development and welfare. · This is one reason why reforms designed to spread the benefits of educa­ tion and health to more and more of the underprivileged classes run into difficulties. 42. The major political and administrative systems of a country may undergo a similar process, and need to be reviewed and ad­ justed from time to time if development goals are to be fulfil­ led. One area of frequent comment and attempts at adjustment is provincial or district government. Where there is too much centralization, given the poor communications ·and perennial scar­ city of resources, the distr'icts are often victims of discrimina­ tion or neglect. 43. Decentralization is often advocated as a way out. It is demonstrably effective. But many attempts at decentralization have been half-hearted. Power is given with one hand and taken back with the other. Participatory democracy often requires that political and administrative machinery should be decentralized to allow more people to be involved in decision-making, planning, implementation and problem-solving close to the scene of action and to the people most affected. 44. The character and functions of many district or village development committees, productivity committees and so on vary from country to country. Effective decentralization depends on having personnel with appropriate training and experience. It also requires pe~sonnel who are fully committed to tleir locality. If administrative and promotional strings are ~·u.:h that they pull the ablest of them out and back to the cap :L1l cities, then the arrangements are undermined. 45. Rural development, in particular, has often been a victim 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the importance of reviewing and adjusting systems to promote development and welfare, specifically in the areas of education, health, and government. It highlights the challenges of decentralization and the need for committed personnel to be effective. This suggests that the text is focused on the development of societies and the need for institutional and structural changes to promote social progress.

**Category**
Economic development, Education