Genuine Participation Research Articles

Analyzing State- Nation Building in Fragmented Societies: A Case Study of Afghanistan (2002-2021)

This study examines the process of state-nation building in Afghanistan’s fragmented society from 2001 to 2021 and its challenges. The research adopts an analytical-complementary approach using qualitative data based on desk studies. Afghanistan’s historical experience indicates that state-nation building has always faced structural and identity-related challenges. After 2001, with the support of the international community, efforts were made to establish a democratic and participatory state. However, the centralization of power and the failure to acknowledge identity diversity hindered the formation of a stable state-nation. The findings suggest that success in this area requires structural reforms, strengthening state institutions, and ensuring the genuine participation of all ethnic groups. Transitioning to a decentralized system, combating corruption, and redefining national identity are among the proposed solutions for achieving a sustainable and democratic state-nation. Afghanistan’s experience over the past two decades demonstrates that without embracing ethnic diversity, strengthening independent institutions, and adopting a comprehensive nation-building approach, achieving lasting stability will remain unattainable.

Building models, building capacity: A review of participatory machine learning for HIV prevention.

A growing number of researchers and practitioners are embracing a "participatory turn" in machine learning (ML) to improve model development, prevent harm, and provide communities more influence over systems that impact them. In this paper, we explore the intersection of participatory practices in healthcare and the emerging focus on responsible AI with a focus on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care. We review the historical context of participation in HIV treatment and prevention, emphasizing how patient activism has shaped practices in this field. We then review participatory ML in HIV prevention and present a brief case study of a project designed to identify candidates for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Louisiana. The review highlights the essential steps in conducting participatory ML. Finally, we draw lessons for future participatory ML projects, underscoring the importance of long-term collaboration, responsiveness to partner feedback, and the crucial role of capacity-building for individuals and organizations. Effective participation requires substantial resources and investment, which supports overall project goals beyond mere improvements in model performance. We also draw lessons for advancing the participatory ML field, including (1) the impact of funding mandates on fostering effective engagement; (2) the need to scale participatory processes rather than just technologies; and (3) the need for genuine participation to allow flexibility in project plans, timelines, and shifts in institutional power dynamics.

Co-design for transitions: developing genuine participatory approaches to involving lifeworld and system participants

ABSTRACT Design (thinking) is increasingly considered a promising approach for addressing societal challenges. However, designing for societal transitions, such as the energy transition, requires new approaches to involve non-designers in the design process. Involving the full range of stakeholders affected by a societal transition means inviting perspectives from both the lifeworld, representing private and public spheres, and the system, representing the state and economy, which is not straightforward. The current work elaborates on genuine participation when co-designing for transitions and proposes eight co-design approaches for genuine lifeworld and system participation. These approaches were developed and tested during a six-month study on youth participation in the energy transition, using Frame Creation practices as a substructure. Building on the empirical insights, we reflect on our methodology, challenges encountered, and opportunities for further developing genuine participatory approaches to designing for societal transitions.

The paradoxes of heritage participation

ABSTRACT Conceptualising and theorising heritage participation is an uneasy quest, with ongoing debates over what constitutes genuine participation. Debates often highlight the expectations placed upon it – expectations that, as I argue in this paper, are accompanied by conceptual paradoxes. First, the paradox of participatory parity. According to Nancy Fraser, economic maldistribution, cultural misrecognition and political marginalisation are primary barriers to achieving equal participation. Paradoxically, participation is often proposed as a solution to eliminate these barriers. Second, the paradox of inclusion. Although heritage participation can serve both inclusion and exclusion purposes, heritage is inherently exclusive, as it often reflects values specific to certain groups. Third, the paradox of multivocality. If multivocality is to prioritise marginalised voices and challenge dominant discourses, distinguishing between them proves challenging. Moreover, entrenched dominant discourses may lead marginalised individuals to doubt their own judgement rather than challenging the power structures behind them. Fourth, the paradox of balancing citizen power and government control. Theoretically, participation is intended to empower citizens to counterbalance government control; however, it has increasingly become part of governmentality itself. Highlighting the paradoxes of participation is not intended to dismiss this concept entirely. Instead, this approach serves to caution against the idealisation of participation.

An action research approach to imposter participants in qualitative research: implications for our practice.

The rise of online recruitment and data collection in qualitative research has led to an increase in imposter participants. Imposter participants are dishonest individuals who fake or exaggerate their identities to participate in studies, usually for financial gain. This issue poses significant challenges to research integrity, ethics, and resource allocation. To raise awareness and address the ethical, diversity and inclusivity considerations related to imposter participation in qualitative research. Our cross-organisational steering group, comprising 17 individuals with diverse experiences in qualitative health studies, employed an educational action research approach to address this issue. Online recruitment methods, while efficient, increase vulnerability to imposter participation. Monetary compensation, while necessary for some populations such as underserved communities, may attract imposter participation. Screening processes must balance verification methods with participant autonomy and anonymity. Data collection methods need adaptation to deter imposters while remaining inclusive to genuine participants. Imposter participation significantly impacts researcher well-being and data trustworthiness. Recommendations include a critical evaluation of recruitment and data collection methods, involving patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) groups; increased researcher support and training on handling imposter participants; and greater awareness and guidance from Research Ethics Committees on appropriate mitigation strategies. Our findings highlight the need for a proactive, collaborative approach to enhance the trustworthiness of qualitative health research while maintaining inclusivity. Future work should focus on the effectiveness of mitigating techniques and their impact on participation from underserved communities.

The Impact of Development Policies on Community Empowerment in Rural Areas

This research examines the influence of development policies on community empowerment in rural areas. Using a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys (n=400) across four diverse rural districts with qualitative interviews (n=40) and focus group discussions (n=12), the study identifies key factors affecting the success of empowerment programs. Findings reveal that community participation in planning phases and equitable access to resources (financial, informational, and material) are fundamental determinants of successful rural empowerment. The research demonstrates that development policies are most effective when they: (1) enable genuine participation beyond mere consultation, (2) build on existing community institutions, (3) address power imbalances within communities, and (4) provide appropriate external facilitation. Statistical analysis shows strong correlations between empowerment outcomes and participation in planning (β=0.73, p<0.001) and access to financial resources (β=0.68, p<0.001). This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of empowerment processes and practical knowledge for policymakers and practitioners seeking to design more effective community development interventions in rural contexts.

Hiểu, Biết, Yêu Để Sống Phụng Vụ

Trong bài thánh ca tựa đề : “Nhân chứng Phúc âm” của linh mục Thành Tâm, Dòng Chúa Cứu Thế có viết : “Ta về thôi vì thánh lễ đã hết nhưng đời ta là thánh lễ nối dài. Đem tình thương Thiên Chúa đến mọi nơi ta sống sao để thành chứng nhân”. ĐK : “Này Ngài sai ta đi đây đó. Sống chứng nhân Phúc âm. Lãnh sứ mạng Chúa trao hôm nào vì là con Thiên Chúa. Này Ngài sai ta đi đây đó đi loan báo Tin Mừng. Loan tin mới tin vui của Ngài rằng Thiên Chúa yêu thương loài người”. Những lời trong bài thánh ca đó toát lên cho chúng ta biết : tuy lễ nghi kết thúc theo nghi thức Phụng vụ nhưng thánh lễ cuộc đời vẫn còn tiếp diễn với sứ mạng loan báo Tin Mừng của mỗi tín hữu. Abstract This paper explores the relationship between liturgy and evangelization within the context of Catholic renewal following Vatican II. Evangelization, it argues, transcends mere proclamation (prophetic evangelization) by incorporating liturgical practices (priestly evangelization) and charitable actions (royal evangelization). It emphasizes that effective New Evangelization requires integration with liturgical celebrations, especially the Eucharist and the liturgical calendar. The author identifies fundamental opportunities presented by liturgical realities for evangelizing both believers and non-believers attending or witnessing these celebrations. The discussion highlights the tension between rigid liturgical norms and the dynamic demands of evangelization, suggesting underutilized moments within the Mass, sacraments, and liturgical year that could enhance evangelization. Additionally, specific challenges for liturgical evangelization are analyzed, alongside practical solutions. Ultimately, the paper emphasizes the critical connection between understanding, loving, and living the liturgy, asserting that genuine liturgical participation fosters deeper spiritual commitment and active witness in the mission of evangelization.

Bridging the Gap: The Indian Constitution and the Unfinished Promise of Adivasi Rights

The Indian Constitution provides an extensive legal framework to protect and empower Adivasi (Scheduled Tribes) communities through fundamental rights, affirmative action, and special provisions like the Fifth and Sixth Schedules. Despite these safeguards, a persistent gap exists between constitutional guarantees and their practical implementation. This paper critically examines the effectiveness of constitutional provisions, judicial interpretations, and policy measures in safeguarding Adivasi rights. By analyzing landmark Supreme Court rulings, legislative frameworks, and socio-economic challenges, the study highlights systemic barriers—such as land alienation, cultural erosion, and administrative inefficiencies—that continue to hinder the realization of these rights. A comparative analysis with global indigenous rights frameworks underscores the need for adaptive policy measures, robust enforcement mechanisms, and genuine community participation. The findings suggest that bridging this gap requires legal reforms, decentralized governance, and a holistic approach integrating legal, economic, and cultural dimensions to ensure meaningful justice and empowerment for Adivasi communities.

Democratic deficit within the electoral system of the Football Association of the Czech Republic

This study analyzes the electoral system of the Football Association of the Czech Republic (FACR) to explore the democratic deficit inherent in its governance structures. Recent trends in Czech football, marked by issues such as corruption and conflicts of interest, highlight the need for optimal governance to enhance accountability and transparency. This research examines the FACR’s new statutes effective from March 2025, comparing them with earlier versions to identify persistent democratic shortcomings. Methodologically, the study employs qualitative document analysis, focusing on the statutory changes and their implications for stakeholder representation and decision-making processes. Key findings indicate that while some reforms aim to mitigate negative practices, the dual Chamber structure and uneven voting rights for different stakeholders undermine genuine democratic participation. Professional players and other vital contributors lack voting rights, leading to a governance model that fails to reflect the interests of all members. The study concludes that without further reforms to address these disparities, the democratic deficit within FACR is likely to persist, limiting the organization’s ability to foster a fair and equitable football environment in the Czech Republic.

An Analysis of the Role of Youth in Shaping Political Dynamics in West Africa: Perspectives on Political Patronage and Youth Engagement in Guinea-Bissau

This research investigates the role of youth in shaping political dynamics in Guinea-Bissau, focusing on political patronage and youth engagement. Despite facing significant socio-economic challenges, such as high unemployment and limited access to quality education, young people in Guinea-Bissau actively engage in non-violent activities like sporting events, cultural days in schools, and community clean-ups, often supported by political parties. These activities reflect a shift towards constructive political participation, contrasting with the more violent demonstrations seen in neighboring countries. The study employs qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and content analysis, to gather and analyze data from Bissau-Guinean youth engaged in politics. The theoretical framework combines political patronage theory, youth political involvement, and democratic engagement to analyze how youth influence political dynamics. Findings reveal that patronage systems play a significant role in mediating youth political involvement, often reinforcing existing power structures and limiting genuine political participation. To enhance youth political involvement, the research underscores the need for investment in education, raising political awareness, and ensuring transparency to reduce corruption and promote informed debates. Drawing on qualitative data from interviews and thematic analysis, the study provides a nuanced understanding of the unique historical, socio-economic, and cultural contexts influencing youth political engagement in Guinea-Bissau. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and effective political processes to foster democratic governance and political stability in the region. This research aims to fill the gap in existing literature by providing a focused analysis of youth political engagement in Guinea-Bissau, contributing to the broader discourse on youth political participation in West Africa.

Procedural Justice and Due Process Principle in the Context of Just Energy Transition: Learning From South Africa

Abstract The transition to renewable energy models to tackle environmental degradation and climate change is one of the most important topics on the international agenda. The energy transition requires a system that is decentralised and democratic, depending more on local energy ownership and the genuine participation of the affected stakeholders. Although different states face various economic and cultural challenges, a common challenge is making the transition as inclusive and equitable as possible so that everyone can benefit equally. The article focuses on South Africa, acknowledging its special place among the Global South countries due to its history and the dependency of its economy on coal. Taking the South African experiences as an example, this article aims to show how the energy transition processes can be more inclusive and just, allowing the affected parties to participate at all levels of the just transition processes and making their voices heard.

The Role of User-Generated Content in Shaping Consumer Trust: A Communication Psychology Approach to E-commerce

User-Generated Content (UGC) plays a vital role in shaping consumer trust within the dynamic realm of e-commerce. This study explores the psychological mechanisms through which UGC influences trust, employing a communication psychology approach. Using qualitative interviews with frequent e-commerce users, the research investigates how UGC impacts trust and the psychological factors involved. Thematic analysis of participant responses revealed key themes, including perceived authenticity, community engagement, and content creator relatability. Participants emphasized that genuine and relatable UGC enhances transparency and trustworthiness, setting it apart from traditional advertising. Additionally, social proof and cognitive biases were found to significantly influence trust formation. Findings suggest that e-commerce platforms can enhance consumer trust by fostering authentic UGC and encouraging active community engagement. This research provides valuable insights into the interaction between digital content and consumer behavior, offering practical strategies for leveraging UGC, such as promoting genuine user participation and integrating UGC into marketing efforts. This study highlights the critical role of UGC in building trust in e-commerce, contributing to the theoretical framework of communication psychology while bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Preserving indigenous medicinal knowledge in Nigeria: The role of digital preservation and information systems

The preservation of indigenous medicinal knowledge is increasingly critical in Nigeria, where traditional healing practices play a significant role in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. This study explores the role of digital information systems in preserving this knowledge, addressing the ethical, cultural, and technical challenges associated with digitization. Using a qualitative research approach, the study involved a purposive sample of 25 participants, including traditional medicine practitioners, librarians, and information scientists. Data were collected through document analysis, expert interviews, and case studies of community-based digital preservation initiatives. The findings reveal that digital information systems offer significant benefits, such as improved organization, storage, and accessibility of indigenous medicinal knowledge. However, challenges such as intellectual property rights, cultural misappropriation, and infrastructural deficits hinder effective preservation efforts. Libraries and information professionals are identified as key facilitators, providing curatorial support, capacity building, and advocacy for ethical standards in digital preservation. .The implications of these findings highlight the need for policies that protect intellectual property rights, increased investment in digital infrastructure, and genuine community participation in preservation initiatives. The study concludes that a culturally sensitive and collaborative approach is essential for the ethical and sustainable preservation of indigenous medicinal knowledge. Key recommendations include the development of clear legal frameworks, the use of multimedia tools to capture cultural context, and the strengthening of libraries' roles in digital preservation. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, librarians, and indigenous communities, contributing to the broader discourse on preserving cultural heritage in the digital era.

Innovative Strategies for Environmental Education in Educational Institutions

The Ana Paez Educational Unit faced environmental problems derived from the lack of preservation of green spaces and the disconnection of the educational community with its surroundings. With 1,198 students and 72 employees, the institution was located in Latacunga, Ecuador, and experienced difficulties similar to those observed in Argentina during 2023. In both contexts, pollution, poor waste management and deforestation affected the environment. Despite initiatives such as the creation of vegetable gardens and reforestation activities, these actions lacked continuity and maintenance, resulting in the progressive deterioration of green areas.Educational institutions in Ecuador and Argentina showed a low commitment on the part of students and teachers, who prioritized obtaining grades over environmental care. In Argentina, the environmental campaigns promoted in 2023 did not achieve genuine participation, generating situations of abandonment in recreational and green school spaces.Faced with this reality, the Ana Paez Educational Unit designed an innovative campaign that sought to involve the entire educational community. This initiative proposed participatory strategies, artistic practices and the use of technology to promote collective responsibility and the formation of environmentally conscious citizens. The need for inter-institutional collaboration and the support of governmental and non-governmental organizations was emphasized to ensure the success of the actions

Empowering the people: The evolution and impact of Portugal’s citizens’ legislative initiatives in a comparative perspective

Abstract Citizens’ legislative initiatives (CLIs) are vital instruments of direct democracy that allow citizens to participate in decision-making and influence the legislative agenda. Despite the growing interest globally, there has been limited scholarly attention on Portugal, which implemented this tool in 2003. This study conducts an in-depth case analysis of CLIs in Portugal, examining their legal evolution, institutional design within the European context, and their usage and success. An original dataset characterizes the initiatives, proponents, and subscribers to provide comprehensive insights. While efforts have been made to make CLIs more accessible in Portugal, the existing requirements and procedures remain moderately accessible, with high signature-to-population ratios and lengthy processing times. The study also finds that most CLIs face rejection, expiration, or withdrawal. Successful CLIs, which result in legislation, often lead to laws that are significantly different from the original proposals. This discrepancy arises because parties substantially modify the original texts during the parliamentary discussion and citizens have little influence over the final version of the law. This research highlights the challenges and limitations faced by CLIs emphasizing the need for reforms to enhance citizen influence in the legislative process and the importance of balancing parliamentary control with genuine and meaningful citizen participation.

Análisis de tres experiencias de formación docente en prevención del consumo de drogas.

Resumen:Para contribuir con el debate sobre las políticas de promoción de la salud realizamos una sistematización de tres experiencias de formación docente en prevención del consumo problemático de drogas realizadas en Argentina. En particular, la revisión de las experiencias está concentrada en el armado de los proyectos de prevención, con especial énfasis en la identificación de aciertos y debilidades en su formulación. Las debilidades más recurrentes ponen al descubierto la subvaloración de las tareas vinculadas con la caracterización de la situación local, la vaguedad de los objetivos de intervención y la falta de espacios de participación genuina para las y los adolescentes. Los aportes podemos condensarlos en cuatro tipos de aciertos que refieren al posicionamiento del mundo adulto, al tipo de actividades propuestas, al modo de vincular la escuela con otras instituciones y a la relevancia asignada a la comunicación y la evaluación de los proyectos preventivos.Palabras clave: Prevención y Promoción de la Salud - Adolescentes - Drogas. SummaryThis study contributes to the ongoing debate on health promotion policies by systematically reviewing three experiences of teacher training in preventing problematic drug use in Argentina. The focus of the analysis lies in the formulation of prevention projects, with particular emphasis on identifying successes and weaknesses. The most common weaknesses highlight the undervaluation of tasks related to characterizing the local situation, the vagueness of intervention objectives and the lack of genuine participation spaces for adolescents. We can condense the contributions into four types of successes that refer to the positioning of the adult world, the type of activities proposed, the way of linking the school with other institutions and the relevance assigned to the communication and evaluation of preventive projects.Key words: Prevention and Health Promotion, Adolescent, Drugs.

환자·시민 참여 패러다임의 존재론적 전환 가능성

Amid the growing prominence of healthcare artificial intelligence (AI), current research still pays only nominal attention to patient and citizen participation. However, this engagement rarely extends beyond tokenism, as healthcare AI ethics continues to reinforce rigid distinctions between doctors and patients and also between subjects and objects. These distinctions, which impedes genuine participation, are rooted in a specific ontology. By embracing a new ontology, participation becomes self-evident, shifting the focus from questioning its feasibility to justifying any limitations on its scope. Importantly, this shift is not limited to healthcare AI ethics; adopting a new ontology could enable meaningful progress across the entire field of bioethics.

Unveiling layers of inclusion in political spaces

This study explores the intricate dimensions of inclusion within political spaces in Zimbabwe. It examines representation and intersectionality to explore how diverse perspectives among different interest groups in society contribute to a more comprehensive and equitable political landscape in Zimbabwe. Additionally, it investigates the role of digital inclusion, and community empowerment in fostering genuine participation. The study dissects the layers of inclusion required for a strong democratic system with an emphasis on youth involvement and the value of civic education. Through emphasising transparency, accountability, and a global perspective, this research article provides a holistic understanding of how political spaces can evolve to embrace diversity and ensure the active engagement of all citizens. The study is informed by the theory of intersectionality and offers a deep understanding of how multiple dimensions of identity, such as race, gender, class, and sexuality, intersect to influence individuals' experiences of political representation and participation. Through applying the intersectionality theory, the study examines how individuals with intersecting identities face unique barriers and challenges when it comes to accessing and engaging with political spaces. It reveals how privilege and power systems interact and function within political frameworks, influencing the opportunities and experiences that various groups have. To achieve the main goal, the study employs a qualitative approach to examine the dimensions of inclusion within political spaces in Zimbabwe. The qualitative constituent involved in-depth interviews and focus groups with diverse stakeholders, including politicians, community leaders, and purported relegated groups, to gather insights into their experiences and perceptions of inclusion. Additionally, a survey was conducted among a representative sample of the population to gather data on their attitudes toward political inclusion and their level of engagement in political processes. This enabled a broader understanding of the overall landscape of inclusivity.

Too few or too many? Exploring the Link between gender dissimilarity and employee absenteeism

Despite well-intentioned gender diversity initiatives aimed at addressing gender imbalances by ensuring minimal female representation in predominantly male groups, such tokenism often exacerbates discrimination and social isolation for these women, potentially leading to absenteeism. Research suggests that the benefits of diversity are realized only when the ratio of women to men reaches a critical threshold that allows for genuine integration and participation. However, this threshold remains uncertain. We integrate tokenism theory with social identity and status characteristics theories to investigate the effects of gender ratios within organizational teams on individual absenteeism. Specifically, we theorize a U-shaped relationship between gender dissimilarity and absenteeism for women, but not for men. Study 1, with a one-year cross-lagged design, encompassing 10,332 blue-collar workers in 1064 teams, supports the U-shaped relationship for women, while the relationship for men was non-significant. In Study 2, we use an experimental design with a sample of 370 female blue-collar workers to explore two potential mechanisms that may together explain the U-shaped gender dissimilarity effect for women. We test whether the gender composition of the work group affects both women’s likelihood of reporting unpleasant experiences and the group’s norms regarding absence. We draw theoretical and practical implications from these findings.

Going beyond dichotomous political discourses about children’s participation and voice: unfolding the complexities of children’s needs in and around supervised contact in Denmark

ABSTRACT This article presents the first results of a Danish research project Supervised Contact: Support and sustainable development in vulnerable children’s everyday life (SOUL) (2023–2026). Supervised contact (SC) takes place when contact between children in out-of-home care and their parents is considered important but where the parents are not capable of taking responsibility for the contact by themselves without the risk of violating the child’s best interest. Based on qualitative data deriving from practice research seminars and interview studies, we analyse and discuss the complexities of children’s needs in and around SC. A major point is that there is a need to strengthen collaborative practices supporting children in making sense of SC and the relationship to their parents. This need goes beyond dichotomous political discourses in Denmark currently projecting a contradiction between children’s and parents’ right to participation and voice: a contradiction which may reinforce the child’s experience of being positioned in a conflict of interest and loyalty. Avoiding this is of great importance for the child’s experience of genuine participation and voice in SC and for the capacity of social work to promote empowerment and democratic participation.