Local Policies, Development and Sustainability

The crisis of traditional production models, growing environmental challenges and changing social needs have contributed to the emergence of local development as a key dimension of broader processes of globalisation, changes in the organisation of work and transformations of the welfare state.

In this context, the local and territorial dimension has become increasingly important in shaping new forms of production and employment. Research in this area focuses on transformations in work, the design and implementation of sustainable policies, and the provision of services that respond to local needs. Particular attention is paid to the role of local actors, including local institutions, small businesses and alternative forms of production.

This research area includes:

• Analysis of local employment policies.
• Analysis of local development policies.
• Analysis of environmental and sustainability policies at local and regional levels.