Citizen Participation and Neighborhood Law: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The main objective of this article is to analyze the relationship between citizen participation and neighborhood rights, addressing their application in local contexts through a systematic review of research published between 2020 and 2025. The PRISMA method was used, applying criteria for identification, selection, eligibility, and inclusion based on academic databases such as Scopus, SciELO, Dialnet, Redalyc, and Google Scholar. Sixteen relevant studies were included that empirically addressed citizen participation in neighborhood settings. The findings reflect that, despite the existence of a favorable regulatory framework—such as the Ecuadorian Constitution, the LOPC, and the COOTAD—in many cases, citizen participation is weak, instrumentalized, or symbolic. In the canton of La Libertad, the main barriers identified are linked to the lack of regularization of participatory mechanisms, the organizational fragmentation of neighborhoods, political patronage, and the limited technical training of community leaders. This situation generates mistrust, apathy, and disconnection between citizens and institutions. The study concludes that strengthening neighborhood rights requires not only political will, but also training processes, legitimate leadership, and an active civic culture that guarantees true participatory governance.