Understanding Development from a Local Perspective: A Qualitative Study on the Filyos Valley Project

The Filyos Valley Project (FVP), located in the Western Black Sea region, has profoundly impacted the area, especially in economic and social areas. Based on interviews with 20 residents, the study finds that while the project has contributed to increased female employment, it has also led to widespread flexible and insecure working conditions. Moreover, housing shortages driven by rising demand have become a critical issue. Notably, the exclusion of local communities from decision-making processes has heightened concerns about governance and equity. These findings highlight the importance of adopting a holistic and participatory approach to ensure sustainable development.