HUMAN AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING: BASES, INSTRUMENTS AND STRATEGIES FOR SOCIAL CHANGE

Abstract

This article aims to examine how the fusion of territorial planning tools, citizen involvement, and stakeholder participation can foster sustainable and fair progress in Ecuador, linked to human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals. The study adopts a qualitative methodology, based on document review, documentary analysis, and triangulation of data obtained from case studies. The results reveal that the main challenges to the implementation of Development and Territorial Planning Plans (PDOT) are due to administrative failures, insufficient sustainable financing, and low citizen participation. However, success stories were identified in rural communities, where education and social work programs have promoted community unity and leadership. The discussion suggests that a holistic approach is essential to overcome these challenges, integrating effective management, social intervention, and active citizen participation. Despite the limitation derived from the use of secondary data, the coherence between different sources ensures the validity of the findings. The article concludes by proposing recommendations to improve the planning and execution of PDOTs, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable development.