O papel dos consórcios intermunicipais no fortalecimento do desenvolvimento territorial no Brasil

Abstract

The 1988 Federal Constitution expanded the autonomy of Brazilian municipalities and encouraged the creation of intergovernmental cooperation arrangements, such as intermunicipal consortia. Territorial development, understood as a multidimensional process that articulates social, economic and environmental dimensions, requires coordination between different levels of government and sectors of society. In this context, intermunicipal public consortia are instruments for the shared management of public policies, which can enhance institutional capacities, optimize resources and address regional inequalities. This article analyzes the contribution of intermunicipal consortia to the strengthening of territorial development in Brazil. The research is based on a literature review and on the analysis of the legal framework, with emphasis on Law No. 11.107/2005. The literature and the legislation indicate that consortia have the potential to reinforce regional integration and improve the provision of public services, especially in small municipalities. Successful experiences in the management of urban solid waste in the semi-arid region of Bahia and in the Metropolitan Region of Recife are highlighted. However, challenges remain, such as asymmetries among member municipalities, weaknesses in intergovernmental cooperation instruments and the lack of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. The article concludes that intermunicipal consortia are a promising strategy of federative cooperation for sustainable regional development, as long as they rely on participatory governance structures and adequate sub-statutory and regulatory instruments.