Citizen participation and local sustainability in Latin America: A systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47606/ACVEN/PH0368Keywords:
citizen participation, sustainability, local governanceAbstract
This study aims to analyze the influence of citizen participation on local sustainability within the context of municipal governance in Latin America. Through a systematic review of the literature, 20 relevant studies published between 2021 and 2023 were identified and selected based on methodological quality, thematic relevance, and timeliness. The methodology included the use of a flow diagram based on the PRISMA protocol guidelines, as well as an analytical matrix to gather and categorize information related to structural, institutional, and social factors influencing participatory processes. The results reveal that citizen participation, when articulated with strong institutional processes, access to information, and effective dialogue mechanisms, positively impacts areas such as environmental management, territorial planning, and the provision of basic services. However, the main barriers identified relate to the gap between participatory discourse and its practical implementation, as well as territorial fragmentation and the lack of continuity in participatory practices. Furthermore, the findings emphasize the need to transform governance structures to strengthen participation and achieve more inclusive and sustainable management across Latin American territories.
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