Communication through local community mechanisms to create participation of network partners in preparing local development plans

Abstract

This academic article aims to explain and synthesize “communication through local community mechanisms to create the participation of network partners in the preparation of local development plans,” emphasizing that the participation of network partners is very important in the preparation of local development plans. It requires “communication” through local community mechanisms designed to be a neutral and free space, using two way communication, dialogue processes, deep listening, mixed media, systematic management, transparency, and respect for the dignity of network partners. This writing presents 1) the importance of communication to create participation, which is a new form of communication under an alternative paradigm that emphasizes dialogue in the form of consultation to open opportunities for community members to face each other, negotiate, understand preliminary information, principles, and diverse approaches for joint decision-making regarding their community; 2) the importance of local communities, network partners, and participation in the preparation of local development plans by linking with the Ministry of Interior regulations on the preparation of development plans for local administrative organizations, which emphasize the participation of directly affected citizens and network partners through local community mechanisms at every stage of the local development plan preparation process, which in practice still faces many problems; 3) appropriate communication principles in the preparation of local development plans should include transparency, accessibility, equality and inclusiveness, the use of mixed media, clarity and simplicity, continuity, and feedback; and 4) Communication through local community mechanisms to create the participation of network partners in the preparation of local development plans according to the communication process linked throughout the planning cycle, from the preparation stage, the stakeholder and network partner analysis stage, the information communication and awareness-raising stage, the provision of local community forums stage, the communication to study problems and needs stage, the communication to prioritize and determine strategies stage, the communication in drafting plans and monitoring mechanisms stage, and the communication during implementation and monitoring and evaluation stage.