Local Governance, Economic Development and Institutions

'Development' is what most people see as progress in the places where they live and in the ways they live. It has to do with public services, the ways to complain when these are not delivered properly, and the spaces to change power structures. It is related to the economy, the opportunities to access a secure job, a sustainable livelihood and increased welfare while caring for the planet and others. It is also linked to the institutions that allow people to live life well, using resources ethically and doing business responsibly in relation to other communities and future generations. This edited collection examines the interconnections between local governance, economic development and institutions, by focusing on what initiatives work and under what conditions they do so. Based on a variety of theories and empirical data, it presents evidence from current experiences around the world, revealed by researchers across different continents and several generations.

Georgina M. Gómez is Senior Lecturer in Institutions and Local Development at the International Institute of Social Studies of Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands. She has published on alternatives of local economic development, complementary currency systems in Argentina and institutions.
Peter Knorringa is Professor of Private Sector and Development at the International Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands. He is principal researcher of the Leiden-Delft-Erasmus Centre for Frugal Innovation in Africa, and coordinator of the Consumer-Civil society work package, ESRC-funded programme on Rising Powers, Labour Standards and the Governance of Global Production Networks.