دور الإدارة المحلية في دعم مسار التنمية المستدامة في الجزائر – دراسة ميدانية بولاية المسيلة –

The Role of Local Administration in Promoting Sustainable Development in Algeria – A Case Study of M’sila Province –

Abstract

Abstract:        

   Local authorities play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable development, as they represent the closest administrative level to citizens and are therefore more capable of identifying local needs and proposing development programs adapted to the specific characteristics of each region. Sustainable development has become one of the major contemporary challenges, given the growing economic, social, and environmental issues faced by societies.

   This study aims to analyze the role of local authorities in achieving sustainable development in Algeria, with a field study conducted in the province of M’sila.

   It seeks to highlight the main development potentials of the province and to assess the contribution of local authorities to promoting sustainable development through various economic, social, and environmental programs and projects.

   The study adopted a descriptive and analytical approach, relying on documentary analysis and field data to examine the effectiveness of local development policies. The findings reveal that the province of M’sila possesses significant natural, economic, and human resources that qualify it to achieve sustainable development. However, the actual exploitation of these potentials remains limited due to several constraints, particularly financial shortages, administrative complexities, and a lack of qualified human resources.

   The results also confirm that local authorities play a fundamental role in supporting sustainable development through infrastructure development, agricultural promotion, improvement of social services, and environmental protection. Nevertheless, enhancing this role requires strengthening financial autonomy, improving administrative performance, promoting participatory governance, and encouraging local investment.

   The study concludes that empowering local authorities and adopting an integrated and participatory development approach constitute key factors for achieving sustainable development and ensuring balanced and inclusive local growth

Keywords: Sustainable Development, Local Authorities.