Local Power: Ideas and Experiences (Phase 2)

This research project addresses the formation of local powers in Ecuador from a diachronic perspective, analyzing the evolution of economic-political regions and their interaction with the political-administrative division (provinces, cantons, and rural parishes). The study aims to resolve the theoretical and practical confusion between the administrative levels of decentralized autonomous governments (GADs) and true local power capable of real territorial influence. It posits that GADs, while extensions of state management with access to public resources, are often weak in terms of genuine local power, which also resides in the economy, society, and territory. The methodology involves analyzing primary documentary sources to establish the theoretical and historical-contemporary framework. Furthermore, a quantitative analysis is conducted based on electoral statistical series from two elections during the 2007-2017 period. Finally, a case illustration is provided through the interpretation of public narratives found in Quito's municipal policies to exemplify the exercise of local power.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To analyze the formation and exercise of local powers in Ecuador, examining their contemporary economic, political, and institutional articulations in contrast with the administrative structure of decentralized governments.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>State, citizenship, public policies and interculturality