Participatory Budgeting and the Formation of Public Spheres

Abstract

Objective: Describe the role of participatory budgeting (PB) in the formation of public spheres. Theoretical Framework: The research is based on Habermas's (2012) theory of communicative action and the formation of public spheres, along with approaches related to deliberative democracy, highlighting the role of PB as a channel for citizen engagement and social justice. Method: The study employs a theoretical analysis to explore the connection between PB and the formation of public spheres, drawing on case studies and existing literature on PB and deliberative democracy. Results and Discussion: The essay identifies six premises that link PB to the formation of public spheres: 1) Discussions on problem-topics influence through public spheres; 2) Public spheres strengthen deliberative democracy; 3) All citizens can participate; 4) PB enables the participation of “weak publics” and promotes social justice; 5) The educational nature of PB enhances citizen reflexivity; 6) PB exercises social control, promoting good governance and transparency. Research Implications: The study suggests that by fostering deliberation and citizen participation, PB can strengthen local democracy and contribute to the formulation of more just and inclusive policies. Originality/Value: This essay offers a theoretical contribution by connecting PB with the theory of communicative action and the foundations for the formation of public spheres, as proposed by Habermas (2012), highlighting its potential to strengthen democracy through deliberative citizen participation.