EXECUTIVE BODIES IN LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT – COMPARATIVE EXAMPLES AND CROATIAN EXPERIENCE

Abstract

This paper aims at analysing the election and jurisdiction of executive bodies in local self-government units, and their relations with the representative bodies, especially in context of mutual influence on local political process. In this context, the models of election of local executive bodies have been analysed and compared with the present German local self-government system, and some other continental European countries. The research has been based on the application of the comparative method. Thus, two models of executive bodies have been established: monocratic and collegial. These models result from implementation of two research methods, i.e. analyses and synthesis. It is expected that the paper will contribute to the better scientific understanding of functioning of executive bodies in local self-government, and dynamics of relations within the triangle including the citizens, executive bodies and representative bodies.