The role of local government in strengthening social capital

Abstract

For many years local authorities have focused primarily on attracting investment capital and on the development of human capital. However today the importance of social capital for successful socio-economic development is becoming increasingly appreciated. For the purpose of this analysis the concept of social capital developed by Robert Putnam was used. For the sake of simplicity the social capital was described as the links, shared values and understandings in society that enable individuals and groups to trust each other and so work together.