Citizen engagement refers to the involvement of ordinary citizens in decision-making processes, planning, and policy development, improving governance by incorporating diverse perspectives, also in the circular economy. This form of civic engagement is recommended since it can encourage more equitable, innovative, and effective circularity practices and policies.

There are several key types of citizen participation, each playing a vital role in building a more inclusive and responsive governance system:

1. Information Participation: This involves the exchange of relevant information between government and citizens. Examples include public meetings, online forums, and marketing campaigns that inform citizens about upcoming projects or policies.
2. Decision-Making Participation: Citizens contribute directly to decision-making processes. Methods such as participatory budgeting, voting, and citizen assemblies allow people to influence policy and the allocation of public funds.
3. Planning Participation: Citizens provide input during the planning phase of projects, such as urban design, services, or policy development. Workshops, community meetings, and crowdsourcing are common methods of engagement in this type of participation.
4. Initiative Participation: This occurs when citizens take the lead in proposing and implementing projects, often supported by grants, crowdfunding, or volunteering to bring community-driven initiatives to life.
5. Evaluation Participation: Citizens are involved in assessing the outcomes of policies or projects. Workshops, surveys, and research projects help communities evaluate the success or shortcomings of governmental actions.

The advantages of citizen participation extend beyond the democratic process. Public engagement can result in enhanced resource efficiency, increased transparency, and community engagement. It promotes sustainable practices such as recycling and energy conservation, helping cities achieve their environmental targets while also benefiting public health and local economies. Furthermore, citizen participation fosters inclusivity, ensuring that all voices, including marginalised groups, are heard in decision-making processes. It builds public trust in government institutions by providing residents with the opportunity to directly influence decisions that affect their lives.

Despite its many benefits, citizen participation faces several challenges. A lack of trust in government remains a significant barrier, often due to a history of unfulfilled promises or perceived corruption. Citizens may also be discouraged by past negative experiences or the belief that their voices are not heard or valued.

In addition, power dynamics between government and citizens can hinder effective participation, with some individuals feeling they lack the influence to bring about real change. Barriers to access, such as limited resources, language barriers, and information gaps, can also prevent full participation, especially for marginalised or underprivileged communities.

Helsinki’s participatory budgeting initiative, OmaStadi, is a notable example of successful citizen engagement. Through this programme, residents can propose, vote on, and implement projects funded by the city. OmaStadi has led to tangible outcomes, such as the creation of a mobile application for citizens to share services and goods, and the development of communal spaces for borrowing household items like power washers. Helsinki’s efforts go beyond simply providing opportunities for participation. The city has made significant strides in inclusivity by offering marketing and voting materials in multiple languages, collaborating with immigrant organisations, and creating user-friendly digital and non-digital participation channels. This commitment to equality ensures that residents from diverse backgrounds can participate, contributing to the programme's success.

Citizen participation is a powerful tool for fostering democracy, promoting sustainable practices, and creating a sense of shared responsibility among residents. However, to fully realise its potential, governments must address the challenges of inclusivity, trust, and accessibility. Helsinki’s OmaStadi initiative offers a promising model of how citizen engagement can lead to tangible, community-driven results.

Source: Kirsi Varkka, Developing manager at the municipality of Helsinki - The Power of Citizen Participation Empowering citizens to create a sustainable future