Impacts of Participatory Budgeting on Civil Society & Political Participation

Participatory budgeting (PB) can have meaningful impacts on civil society organisations (CSOs) and residents’ political participation, but these impacts depend on the context and design of the PB process. Civil society refers to the space for collective action around different interests, that is generally separate from the family, government, or market. This space includes nongovernmental organisations as well as more informal associations and coalitions. Political participation refers to people’s involvement in activities that influence public decision-making, such as voting, contacting elected officials, and joining advocacy efforts.

In this research brief, we explain the theory of change linking PB to civil society and participation, identify six key research findings, and share practical recommendations for advocacy, planning & design, and research.

Also, you can check the online course where leading researchers share key findings on the impacts of PB on indicators of governance and well-being, explaining how PB can increase tax revenues, shift public spending, reduce infant mortality, and more. Government practitioners and civil society advocates help translate this research into practical recommendations and next steps for your work.

The info sheet is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Russian, and Chinese.

Year of publication: 2021

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