In recent years, a number of contracts providing for various supports from public funds for integrated packages of development activities have been signed in rather numerous small zones. The socio-political significance of this movement aiming at mobilizing local initiatives and resources is analyzed. Within this complex and diverse movement, contradictions appear between those in favour of modernization and those who question it. There may also be some differences of opinion between the local proponents of these area contracts and both political leaders and administration institutions (Ed.).
