Professionalization of the public participation field
Starting with a discussion on the multiple and diverse understandings of public participation, this booklet builds a portrait of relevant actors of public participation (Part 1). It discusses challenges and opportunities brought about by the professionalization of public participation (Part 2). The report concludes with recommendations for the expansion of participatory, reflexive, citizen-based and capacity-enhancing public participation.
While having the potential to create the parameters of a more structured system of public engagement, the professionalization of PP can also inadvertently displace the inclination or commitment of citizens to engage or drive the participatory structures themselves. This reduced level of ownership can lead to displacement of responsibility or reinforce a sense of disconnection to public affairs. As a stakeholder-based form of public engagement, it is critical that citizens be at the center of public participation, both as stakeholders and designers.
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Reading Development 