"Estructura de la administración propia del resguardo de Ipiales vs el modelo de administración pública municipal: coincidencias, tensiones y oportunidades de articulación"

Abstract

This study analyzes the coincidences, tensions, and opportunities for articulation between the self-governance administrative structure of the Resguardo of Ipiales and the municipal public administration model, with the aim of strengthening Indigenous governance and interinstitutional coordination in the territory. A qualitative approach with an ethnographic and cultural studies design was adopted, grounded in situated research and the recognition of the Indigenous worldview as a basis for understanding governance practices. The descriptive-comparative method made it possible to characterize and contrast both administrative systems, identifying similarities, differences, and potential pathways for articulation. Data were collected through semi structured interviews, participant observation in community settings, and document review. The sample was intentional and included authorities from the resguardo and municipal officials with experience in interinstitutional coordination processes. The findings show that both the Indigenous government and the municipal administration possess solid organizational structures, although they respond to distinct political and epistemological logics: while the resguardo is grounded in collectivity, relationality, and spirituality, the municipal model operates under a bureaucratic and normative rationality. These differences generate tensions when they are not recognized as legitimate and equivalent forms of governance; however, they also open opportunities when practices of dialogue, prior consultation, and mutual recognition are present. The study concludes that intercultural articulation does not depend solely on procedural adjustments, but on transforming the relationships between both governance systems toward horizons of epistemic equality and respect for Indigenous autonomy. In this way, it is possible to advance toward a plural governance model that strengthens cooperation and builds more symmetrical relations between the State and Indigenous authorities.