El rol del trabajador social en la gestión pública del gobierno autónomo descentralizado municipal del cantón Latacunga

Abstract

This study, carried out in the context of the Municipal Decentralized Autonomous Government of Latacunga Canton (GADMCL), analyzes the role of the social worker in public management, emphasizing its impact on the planning, execution and sustainability of municipal projects, as well as on mediation and conflict resolution. Through interviews with Departmental Directors and social workers, it was identified that this professional acts as a key mediator between citizens and public institutions, ensuring that institutional responses are relevant and aligned with social needs. The qualitative analysis shows that social workers contribute significantly to the identification of social problems, the formulation of public policies and the implementation of community projects, highlighting their skills in communication, leadership and conflict resolution. In addition, their humanistic approach and personal values such as empathy, solidarity and professional ethics position them as strategic agents in the promotion of social inclusion and collective well-being. However, the study also reveals structural barriers, such as a lack of resources and institutional ignorance of their strategic role, which limit their impact on public management. Despite the limitations, social workers demonstrate adaptability and creativity in overcoming challenges, strengthening the community fabric and promoting the sustainability of municipal projects. Finally, it is concluded that strengthening the role of social workers in public management requires ongoing training programs, greater integration in strategic planning and the creation of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. These actions will ensure a greater impact of this professional in institutional management and in responding to citizen demands.