THE ROLE OF LOCAL POLITICIANS IN DEVELOPING PUBLIC POLICY

Abstract

This academic article explores the role of local politicians in public policy development, emphasizing their significance as the closest representatives to the people and key actors in tailoring policies to the unique contexts of their areas. It reviews and analyzes data from documents, research studies, and relevant case studies, focusing on the public policy process at the local level. This includes policy formation, decision-making, implementation, and evaluation, alongside examining factors influencing policy effectiveness and challenges faced by local politicians. These challenges include limited resources, national political interference, and insufficient public participation. The article proposes strategies to enhance local politicians’ effectiveness, such as capacity building, fostering public engagement, adopting good governance principles, leveraging technology and innovation, and establishing collaborative networks. Findings highlight the critical role of local politicians in promoting development that meets community needs and fosters sustainability. However, achieving these goals requires comprehensive support from all stakeholders, including citizens, the government, and other organizations, to ensure local policy processes are appropriate, transparent, and responsive to long-term needs.