The Economic and Social Forum (FES) of La Laguna unveiled the findings of the La Laguna Barometer 2024 yesterday, an extensive social research initiative conducted this year in collaboration with the University of La Laguna (ULL) to assess and refresh the concerns, issues, and needs of the local populace across the municipality. The research indicates that key concerns among Laguneros include, but are not limited to, reliance on tourism, housing, services like transportation, waste management, water supply, sanitation, and engagement in decision-making processes.
The mayor of La Laguna and chair of the FES, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, inaugurated the event held at the Faculty of Economics, Business and Tourism, stating that this second iteration of the barometer is “the outcome of thorough and diligent work conducted alongside the University,” and that it will enable the municipality to “obtain a comprehensive assessment of our realities.”
“It equips us with an extensive and varied perspective on what genuinely matters to our community and underscores the necessity of fostering active and direct involvement from citizens. Through this understanding, we can continue to shape policies and initiatives that encourage sustainable, inclusive, and balanced development throughout La Laguna,” the mayor elaborated.
The rector of the ULL, Francisco García, remarked that it is “an exceptionally effective tool from a decision-making viewpoint, as it combines a quantitative, meticulous approach with reliable and refined data produced by the technical team, and also introduces an innovative qualitative dimension”, highlighting “extensive engagement with local residents and focus groups”, in addition to emphasising “the noteworthy success of the Prosperity Index incorporated into the barometer, which assesses quality of life beyond mere statistics.”
Conclusions
The local council has reported that the analyses conducted on the concerns expressed by residents and social entities, as well as the proposal for the Prosperity Indicator, reveal significant points of consensus. Both aspects emphasise the integral nature of factors contributing to citizen well-being, such as the standard of public services, access to healthcare, and educational opportunities.
The barometer indicates that dependence on tourism as the primary economic driver is a prevalent concern, highlighting a pressing need to diversify the local economy. This strategy corresponds with the principles of investing in innovation and infrastructure, as well as promoting alternative sectors that bolster the municipality’s economic resilience.
Concerns regarding service infrastructures—such as transportation, urban cleanliness, potable water, and sanitation—emerge as a common theme. The significance of inclusion and equitable access to opportunities and services is also apparent, particularly regarding access to affordable housing, job opportunities, and quality education and healthcare services for younger and lower-income populations.
Decision-making participation and transparency in public governance are pivotal elements across both sections. There is a widespread perception of disconnection in decision-making within urban settings, while rural areas appear to encourage greater community involvement.
Both sections highlight the necessity for a balance between development and the preservation of natural resources, advocating for the responsible use of green spaces, sustainable tourism, and respect for cultural heritage as crucial components of urban development.
