Participation in Democratic Life
Participation begins where everyday life meets decisions. It’s in the choices we make, the conversations we spark and the initiatives we create. From local communities to European policies, participation connects daily realities with the decisions that shape our future.
Participation is at the heart of democracy.
Meaningful participation goes beyond merely “taking part” in an activity or process, as might be understood in some languages. It entails the right of people to have a say in decisions that affect them, their communities and countries, and beyond.
Participation in democratic life consists of diverse ways in which people individually and / or in groups express and act on their needs and opinions, and how it impacts policies, actions and/or other developments towards social change.
In addition to participation being a right, participation can also provide benefits to all.
On the one hand, those who take part can have their opinion heard, contribute to change and learn in the process. On the other hand, decision-making bodies/individuals and their initiatives can in turn become more efficient, inclusive and/or relevant for everyone.
Participation in democratic life can have many interpretations and definitions. Some of the related concepts are
- civic / democratic / active engagement;
- civil participation;
- participatory democracy;
- active citizenship.
Understanding participation
Participation is diverse
While voting or being a candidate in electoral processes or being part of formal organisations are certainly important and widely recognised, there are also other forms of participation. Some examples include engaging with other elected and/or representative bodies (pupils’ / student / youth councils, citizen assemblies, unions, etc.); signing petitions; protesting; volunteering; donating; posting on social media; reaching out to decision-makers; ethically boycotting brands or products for ethical reasons; among many others. It can also differ in magnitude – whether it’s a short public consultation process, shared decision-making, citizen-led action or everything in-between.
Participation can happen everywhere
Participation can be an individual and collective activity, initiated by institutions or those affected by the issue. It can occur in different places (at home, in formal or informal movements, in and outside of public institutions, etc.), at various levels (local, national, international, etc.), address different topics (healthcare, workplace, education, social causes, etc.) and impact different spheres (individual, interpersonal, community, institutional, public policy, etc).
Participation is about power
Meaningful participation requires sharing power with those affected by any decision. It requires careful consideration – who makes decisions and how, whose opinions, needs and interests are being addressed in the process?
It is especially crucial to consider this when involving people whose participation is affected by structural power imbalance and exclusion, including but not limited to racism, ableism, ageism, and sexism.
Participation requires information
For individuals or groups to be willing and able to join democratic participation processes, it is essential to provide them with the necessary information, preparation and support related to the content, goals, processes and expected outcomes of the activity. This also involves regular feedback on the impact of their participation. Ensuring that all participants are adequately equipped to take part will result in a more inclusive and empowering process.