PIRES, Carlos Henrique; LOPES, Luiz Eduardo Monteiro; LICOR, Maria Ranyele dos Santos; BORGES, Elisabeth Maria de Fátima
Abstract:
Rural administration is essential for family farmers, as it strengthens sustainable
production, values agricultural work, and promotes the development of rural
communities and organizations. This study aims to examine the presence of
democratic management within ASPAF and reflect on its importance in the associative
context of rural administration. It investigates the diversity of activities carried out and
verifies, through the entity’s minutes and documents, evidence of participatory
practices. The methodology adopted was qualitative based on documentary and
bibliographic analysis, using minutes, accounting records, and the association's statute
as sources. The findings indicate that ASPAF maintains a solid administrative
structure grounded in collective participation, such as decision-making through
assemblies and voluntary roles, characterizing democratic management. A practice of
solidarity economy is also observed through community actions like collective farming
and joint purchasing, reflecting cooperation and self-management. Furthermore, the
association demonstrates concern for sound rural administration by seeking training
and maintaining basic accounting records. The model adopted by ASPAFhighlights
that member participation in decisions is essential for the social and economic
development of rural communities. It is concluded that democratic management within
ASPAF's rural administration has strengthened associative work, promoting
transparency, equity, and sustainability.