Diseño de una propuesta metodológica participativa para la formulación de políticas públicas con juventudes rurales: propuesta piloto en la parroquia de Checa, cantón Cuenca, Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: This research addresses the gap between the regulatory framework that recognizes youth participation in Ecuador and the practical limitations to sustaining it in rural territories. Using the Checa parish in the Cuenca canton as a case study, the objective was to design a participatory methodological proposal adapted to the territory that strengthens the effective and sustained participation of rural youth in the formulation of public policies by the Parish Government. A qualitative interpretive approach was used, with a review of documents and an analysis of background information and participatory methodologies applied in Latin America and Ecuador, complemented by an analytical matrix aimed at identifying gaps, lessons learned, and operational criteria. As a result, a methodological guide was developed with phases, techniques, and practical tools for diagnosis, prioritization, formulation of alternatives, decision-making, and feedback. This guide is linked to local planning and designed for its application and subsequent validation through focus groups with institutional actors and youth. This proposal seeks to reduce symbolic participation, improve impact, and provide replicable tools for rural parish governments. The study gathers and operationalizes analytical categories to understand the problem from a participatory approach and, in particular, delves into youth participation, demand orientation, and the representativeness of the actors involved in the formulation of youth public policies.