2: Promoting Accountability and Transparency
One of the most vital reasons to engage in public decision-making is that it promotes accountability and transparency within government and public institutions. Too often, when decision-making is left solely to a select few individuals, it can lead to a lack of oversight and even corruption. By participating in these processes, citizens act as an essential check on government actions, ensuring policies are developed in the open and align with the community’s best interests.
Public participation strengthens the connection between citizens and their government. When people are actively involved, they have a clearer understanding of how decisions are made and the reasons behind them. This helps prevent the perception of secrecy or favoritism. Additionally, citizens who participate in public meetings, discussions, or advisory boards ensure that the decision-making process is inclusive, fair, and transparent.
Research from the University of Minnesota and the University of Nevada highlights that citizen engagement leads to better public outcomes. A transparent decision-making process leads to higher public trust, especially when people see that their feedback is being taken seriously. Trust is the foundation of any healthy democracy, and involving citizens ensures that government actions are seen as legitimate and grounded in the people’s needs and desires.
Involving others in public decisions encourages open dialogue and mutual respect, leading to greater accountability. This creates a culture where decisions are not made in isolation but rather with input from those they affect.
Watch for the rest of the series throughout January – March 2025.
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References:
Horntvedt, J. (2024). Five reasons to involve others in public decisions. UMN Extension. https://extension.umn.edu/public-engagement-strategies/five-reasons-involve-others-public-decisions
Rebori, M. (2005). Motivating reasons for community participation: Extension: University of Nevada, Reno. Extension. https://extension.unr.edu/publication.aspx?PubID=4014
OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT [Large language model]. https://chatgpt.com
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