Citizen Control: Social networks and political practices in the Cantones Girón and Oña.

The purpose of the present research is to analyze the political practices that the different social organizations of the Oña and Girón cantons carry out, around the social control exercise, recognizing the latter as an expression of broad social participation, whose purpose goes beyond a simple accountability. To do this, we intend to study on the one hand: the social relationship networks that the different organizations maintain, under articulating interests; On the other: the possibility and the capacity of interaction between civil society and political society, as a reflection of incursion of a direct democracy. Then, through the relationship of these two spaces, we will try to determine to what extent the social control exercise is reflected in an inclusive political process, or not. Starting from the hypotheses raised, which is summarized in the position that the citizen control exercise depends on the level of organization and linking of social organizations, as well as the acceptance of local governments, not only as aspects of will and commitment, but also as a scenario of legitimization of their management; The proposed methodology is part of the "appreciative inquiry" approach, which considers those involved as subjects of research, thus generating a process of valorization and recognition of their knowledge, experiences and opinions. The results that are expected to be achieved: a methodological proposal that serves as guidance for future social control processes, aimed at social organizations, local governments and institutions involved in the territory. In addition, the proposed methodology allows to contribute with the strengthening of social networks in their political practices, through their involvement in the present investigation. This research is additionally framed, in the process of systematizing participatory experiences carried out by the municipalities of Oña and Girón, with the support of the Local Decentralization and Development Program (PDDL).

7th UNIVERSITY PROJECT COMPETITION, 2nd RESEARCH PROGRAM COMPETITION