A paradiplomacia como ferramenta de desenvolvimento e sustentabilidade : o caminho para a construção de cidades inteligentes em Sergipe

Abstract

This monograph analyzes paradiplomacy as a strategy for territorial development, investigating its interfaces with the Smart Cities paradigm and its potential within the context of the State of Sergipe. Based on a theoretical framework that articulates multilevel governance, public policies, smart cities, and subnational international action, the study seeks to understand how state governments, municipal actors, and the private sector can use international engagement as an instrument for innovation, sustainability, and economic competitiveness. Methodologically, the research adopts a qualitative, exploratory, and analytical approach, grounded in bibliographic review, documentary analysis, and the examination of relevant institutional and economic initiatives. The findings indicate that contemporary paradiplomacy goes beyond traditional state-centered action, incorporating public and corporate modalities, as well as international networks and mechanisms of technical cooperation. In the case of Sergipe, the analysis reveals a process that is still under consolidation, marked by recent institutional advances, particularly in investment attraction, the energy transition agenda, foreign trade, and the incorporation of the international dimension into governmental planning. Nevertheless, challenges related to institutional fragmentation and the absence of an integrated external engagement strategy persist. It is concluded that the articulation between paradiplomacy and smart cities represents a strategic opportunity for Sergipe, enabling the diffusion of innovation, the strengthening of urban governance, and the promotion of sustainable development in alignment with global agendas.