Notes on Participatory planning model: the case of Minas Gerais

Abstract

This article deals with a controversial question, either of theoretical or ideological nature, posed in recent literature on regional development: participative planning.

The authors describe a fresh experiment of participative planning in the state of Minas Gerais, pointing out that due to its theoretical and exploratory character their work should not be seen as an evaluation.

They comment briefly on the definition of this type of planning, calling attention to some erroneous concepts established thereon, and which may lead to erroneous applications, thus frustrating goals previously fixed in terms of planning.

The writers reach the conclusion that, even though the problems faced by participative planning are not few - a necessity of institutional adaptation and political sensibility to overcome obstacles arising from the development of the experience itself - results can be considered satisfactory, in terms of its application in Minas Gerais.