Diagnóstico de Conflictos Asociados al Uso del Espacio Público por Comercio Informal en Exteriores de Dos Unidades Educativas en la Ciudad de Nueva Loja, Cantón Lago Agrio, Ecuador

In the present research, the problems caused by informal commerce in public spaces on the outskirts of two educational institutions in the city of Nueva Loja, cantón Lago Agrio, Ecuador are analyzed. It is suggested that this phenomenon, common in Latin America, represents a challenge for local municipal governance and social coexistence, as it obstructs traffic and poses safety and hygiene risks for the student community. The study focuses on the use of space located on the outskirts of the “Napo” Educational Unit and the “Dr. Camilo Gallegos Dominguez” Millennium Educational Unit, where parents and local authorities have expressed concerns about pedestrian and vehicular congestion, as well as the lack of hygienic conditions for food sales. Through interviews with parent representatives, municipal officials, and vendors, it has been identified that the lack of public policies focused on the organization and regulation of the use of public space is one of the main challenges for the occupation of these areas. The document highlights the importance of finding a balance between the vendors' right to work and the citizens' right to a safe and orderly public space. To this end, it is suggested that an ordinance with a participatory focus be created specifically for the places and activities of the vendors, as well as training, which could help mitigate conflicts and ensure a safer and more organized environment for all involved.