What do you mean, "give them autonomy"? It's not that easy.
They've got a government of sorts.
It, and other organizations of power, spends money on bombs, not infrastructure.
How do you suggest an external power change this?
I am not yet born, console me.
I fear that the human race may with tall walls wall me,
with strong drugs dope me, with wise lies lure me,
on black racks rack me, in blood-baths roll me.