Stakeholder Dynamics in the Context of a Local Urban Project

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of our contribution is to highlight the complex dynamics of stakeholders of a local urban project from idea to implementation. This local urban project is a part of the Annual Investment Plan (AIP) adopting participatory schemes.Methodology: Our qualitative approach is based on a participant and non-participant observation of the local urban project processes and on semi-structured interviews with the involved stakeholders to multiply the testimonies and materials to be analysed. The study of an urban project enabled us to observe processes and stakeholders in action: during citizens’ meetings and public assemblies, at meetings with administrative officials in charge of the project and with municipal actors in municipal committees, as well as during meetings of local civil society.Findings: By following and analysing the different stages of the project’s genesis, we were able to identify, map and analyse the dynamics of the stakeholders, and identify their expectations. We were also able to highlight the differentiated perceptions of participatory mechanisms, the gap between the expectations of the different stakeholders with regard to the urban project, and the role that participatory mechanisms could play in the adherence of stakeholders to the project.Implications: This research focuses on the pre-project implementation phase in order to identify the dynamics of adherence to the project by the different stakeholders. A future study could explore the power held by the stakeholders and their influence in the pre-project launch phase and the urban project implementation phase. This study illustrates several stakeholder buy-in issues raised by previous studies (Cleland, 1986; Littau et al., 2010; Winch, 2017). It emphasises the need to convert stakeholder interest and influence into active participation, and to take a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to managing with stakeholders. Contribution: This study of a local urban project allows us to reflect on the process of the mobilisation of stakeholders for a local public project in the Tunisian context. The analysis of collective problem-solving processes in a context of democratic transition highlights the need to reorganise local governance institutions in order to involve all stakeholders in decision-making.