Perceptions and citizen participation practices as an instrument to governance. Case of study: Kaukari Park, Copiapó, Atacama Region

Abstract

Introduction: There is a rising interest, from a national and international level, of the citizens to be part of decision making in terms of public affairs, for different reasons. economic, social, environmental, loss of trust in authorities, among others. If citizens are involved in affairs of public or common interest, identity, greater commitment, and collaboration among different actors of society are generated.

Objective: Contribute to knowledge from the notion of governance and citizen participation, in the context of a case study as it is the governance table of Kaukari park.

Method: The research is descriptive and qualitative with an interpretative approach, and it seeks to characterize the experience of citizen participation and governance exercised in Kaukari Park, Atacama Region, Chile. A semi-structured interview technique was applied.

Results: The results show the practices of participation promoted by the administration and mechanisms of operation of the governance table in the park management during the period 2020-2023, displaying the type of articulation among the local actors in decision making and public affairs. In addition, potential digital, logistical, and operational barriers are detected, preventing full participation.

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