Rationale - what it means and why it is an important measure
To measure the degree of actual involvement of the public in urban decision-making processes. Citizen participation in local government is an important part of democracy and self-determination. A strong local support-base for government is better able to monitor citizen needs and represent the wishes of the citizenry.
How it is compiled, what data are needed
The percentage of decisions taken by authorities with public involvement. A formal participatory process might involve: public announcements with receipt and processing of objections; public meetings and consultations; formation of oversight committees involving non-governmental organisations and public representatives.
ICLEI, 2000. Measuring Progress, Cities 21: Pilot Project Final Report.
Objective
To increase citizen participation, transparency and accountability in decision-making. One goal is to have an urban governance in which citizens actively participate.
Targets, benchmarks, reference values
No specific targets
References to examples of application
Participatory management in the city of Rafaela: http://www.bestpractices.org/cgi-bin/bp98.cgi?cmd=detail&id=7761.
Involving citizens in urban planning processes, Kaarina, Finland: http://www.iclei.org/europractice/egpc-060.html.
Other comments / background
Civic engagement and participation are less effective without a well-informed public. Education and the open flow of information are the necessary cornerstones of a democratic society.
