Communal Spaces and Networks: Building a System of Popular Government in Venezuelan Territory

Abstract

The objective of this research is to explore, conceptually and methodologically, communal spaces and networks in Venezuela as an emerging network that connects and articulates an intercommunal governance system, contributing to the realization of participatory democracy. It is based on participatory action research with a systemic approach. The study focuses on 19 communes of Santa Teresa del Tuy-Cartanal-Soapire, in Valles del Tuy, Miranda state, between 2018 and 2020. The article is structured in three parts: the first analyzes the common political principle within the communal organization system; the second conceptualizes communal spaces and networks; and the third proposes the interaction between actors to build communal networks in the case study. The results indicate that communal spaces can complement and connect each other through production as a common element and driver of the network. Beyond the public or private domain, communal spaces and networks can foster social-communal ownership, expressing popular expectations and consolidating the exercise of participatory democracy. Finally, this research suggests that communal spaces and networks can contribute to building a socialist society in the territory, promoting equity and social justice.