Análisis del presupuesto participativo como herramienta de gobernanza local del cantón Ventanas durante 2024

Abstract

Participatory budgeting is presented as a tool for democratic governance that promotes citizen participation, transparency, and the equitable distribution of public resources through dialogue and consensus. The main objective of this research is to analyze the relationship between participatory budgeting and the management of the Decentralized Municipal Autonomous Government of the Ventanas canton during the year 2024, with two specific objectives: to determine how it strengthens local governance and to identify its impact on the canton's socioeconomic development. The methodology used was descriptive-explanatory with a qualitative approach, allowing for the characterization of the phases and actors involved in the process, as well as the examination of factors that influence its implementation. Documentary analysis of regulatory and bibliographic sources was used, along with interviews with officials from the GAD's Finance, Administration, and Planning departments, as well as with citizens, to learn about their perceptions and experiences. The participatory budget was developed in five phases: organization and dissemination, training, working groups, preparation and approval, and monitoring. Financial indicators revealed high efficiency in revenue (98%) and expenditure (97%), as well as a reduction in financial dependence. However, problems of socioeconomic disconnect and political prioritization were identified that limit the social impact of participatory budgeting, underscoring the need to strengthen planning and citizen participation.