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The Study on Economic
Development, |
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Approach of the Study
Approach
The economic development master plan focusing on the Eastern Region could only be prepared through a sound planning approach with wide participation of various stakeholders, and clear and internationally acceptable methodologies. Specifically, the Study employed the following approach in technical and operational aspects.
Technical approach
The technical approach for the Study consisted of:
1) Application of methodologies for regional development planning,
2) Comparative analysis to identify promising commodities and industries,
3) Formulation of core infrastructure projects in the Eastern Region to serve the economic development of El Salvador,
4) Proposal for poverty alleviation measures by the regional development approach, and
5) Close collaboration with local governments and people for an implementable plan.
Each element is outlined.
First, the Study clarified socio-economic conditions and resource potentials of different regions. Development frameworks were clarified for the Country, and within such frameworks, socio-economic and spatial development frameworks for the Eastern Region were established by applying methodologies for regional development planning. Development scenarios were prepared for both the development of the Eastern Region and the revitalization of the La Union port.
Second, the Study identified promising commodities and industries that might contribute to strengthening competitiveness of El Salvador in the international market through economic diversification. Both existing and potential commodities and industries were subject to examination. The Study utilized a survey of the existing industries as a basis for analyzing products development and process upgrading. Competitiveness was assessed on the basis of marketability (costs vs. prices), product quality and minimum scale for viability, among others.
Third, the Study formulated core infrastructure projects in the Eastern Region that would also serve for the economic development of El Salvador. They included the three strategic initiatives defined in the National Plan: the La Union port, the northern longitudinal road and the San Miguel river development. Inter-sector and inter-project complementarity were reflected in the project formation.
Fourth, the Study proposed measures to alleviate poverty by the regional development approach. Livelihood activities by the poor utilizing indigenous resources were planned in such a way that they would develop and link up with viable economic activities. Establishing a management system for land and water resources by people's participation is essential part of the measures.
Fifth, the Study was carried out in close collaboration with local governments, and people's participation was effected through a series of community workshops. This approach was adopted to facilitate the implementation of development projects and other measures formulated through the Study by enhancing the motivation of the local governments and people. A pilot project (of small-scale local indigo industrialization) was implemented by the local initiatives before the completion of the Study.
Operational approach
The operational approach to execution of the Study consisted of:
1) Open planning system to allow participation of a wide range of stakeholders,
2) Equal partnership between Salvadoran and foreign experts and personnel,
3) Full utilization of existing data, information and project experiences,
4) Coordination with other aid organizations, and
5) Information dissemination and exchange through various media and opportunities.
The Study adopted an open planning system in which anyone interested in taking part and making contributions were welcome (see the figure below). In addition to formal consultative meetings, many informal meetings were held to discuss various issues involved in the master planning. A joint team of CND and JICA carried out the Study effectively by sharing responsibilities equally. Not only the Salvadoran members of the JICA Study Team but also additional experts and assistants who were mobilized by the JICA Study Team worked in tandem as equal partners of the CND/JICA joint team.
Communication Channels for Open Planning System
The Study utilized and benefited from a large amount of data, information and study reports accumulated through recent studies on various sectors and development issues. Experiences learned from development projects supported by other aid organizations were shared and reflected in the Study. Formulation and implementation of complementary projects supported by different donors were facilitated by aid coordination.
Interim results of the Study were disseminated widely and relevant information exchanged through various media and opportunities. CND, in cooperation with JICA, organized seminars both in San Salvador and the Eastern Region at each stage of the Study.