Local Development

Local development is an endogenous process for diversifying economic and social activities, mobilizing local resources and energies. It aims to improve the living conditions of local populations through a participatory approach, valorizing territorial specificities. The concept is emerging as an alternative to centralized policies, combining decentralization, local governance and regional planning. It combines several dimensions, both economic (job creation, business recovery) and social (access to basic services, equity). Key players include the State (regulatory framework), local authorities (implementation), businesses and local populations. Its success depends on a number of factors, such as technical capacity, financial resources and a shared vision of the territory. On the other hand, local development can lead to dependence on external funding, territorial dislocation and a weakening of public institutions. Local development relies on public-private partnerships and inclusive governance to ensure its sustainability.

Pages: 72, Paperback, Our Knowledge Publishing