Who does the term 'local stakeholders' primarily refer to?

The term 'local stakeholders' primarily refers to residents and local service providers because they are the individuals and groups directly affected by or involved in the management and development of urban environments within a specific area. Residents are often the ones who experience the effects of urban policies and changes firsthand, while local service providers like businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities play essential roles in the community by delivering services, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth. Their insights and needs significantly influence urban planning and development decisions, making them crucial participants in the local context.

In contrast, national governments, global organizations, and international agencies tend to have broader, more distant perspectives in urban development, focusing on national or international policies rather than local specifics. They may provide support or funding but are not typically involved in the day-to-day realities of local communities. This differentiation highlights why residents and local service providers are central to the understanding of local stakeholder dynamics.