Local Security in the Idea of Sustainable Development

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the research is to analyse the relationship between the level and sense of security of residents and local sustainable development. Design/Methodology/Approach: The analysis of local security in the context of sustainable development is based on critical analysis of literature and statistical data. In addition, the results of research on the evaluation of the basic elements of the local security system, carried out on a statistically significant sample (4,400 people) of residents of local communities in the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship. Additionally, taxonomic analyses were carried out, in which the assessments of the level of security by the communities of the powiats of the above voivodeship were compared. In the further part of the study, a review was made of the correlation of taxonomic measures of local security level with the most important indicators of sustainable development. In the final phase of the study, the ranking of powiats of Kujawsko-Pomorskie voivodeship was constructed according to the integrated measure of development. Findings: Local communities, in conditions of sustainable development, aim at the security (social order) of individuals associated in the local community. The special role of local government in ensuring the principle of sustainable development is proved by the systemic solutions adopted in Poland and legal regulations specifying the competences and tasks of local government units of various levels. Practical Implications: The results are of significant importance to local authorities. They allow for a better design of local development management systems, taking into account the assessment of individual elements of the security system. Originality/Value: The research carried out has primarily proven the usefulness of multidimensional analysis and linear ordering methods for the assessment of the examined issues. Sustainability issues, which by nature are multidimensional problems, should not be assessed through the prism of single indicators or stratetical documents.