Participatory management and its impact on local development in the canton of La Libertad, Santa Elena province

Abstract

The objective of this article is to evaluate the impact of participatory management on local development in the canton of La Libertad, Santa Elena province. Several techniques and tools were used to address the challenges identified and ensure the active and equitable participation of all sectors of the community in the decision-making process and project implementation. The study employed descriptive research based on qualitative data collection and analysis, including interviews with key local stakeholders, document review and participant observation. The results reveal that participatory management has had a positive impact on several aspects of local development. First, there has been a strengthening of the social fabric, with greater collaboration and solidarity among local inhabitants. This active participation has generated a sense of belonging and shared identity, fundamental for addressing common challenges and promoting more integrated and sustainable development. The need was identified to strengthen the technical and organizational capacities of local stakeholders, as well as to ensure adequate financial resources and maintain an ongoing commitment to citizen participation.