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3. (a) Explain what is meant by participatory budgeting in this context? (b) Highlight some examples of participatory budgeting that you have come across in local government - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3 - 2012
Question 3
3. (a) Explain what is meant by participatory budgeting in this context? (b) Highlight some examples of participatory budgeting that you have come across in local g... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:3. (a) Explain what is meant by participatory budgeting in this context? (b) Highlight some examples of participatory budgeting that you have come across in local government - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3 - 2012
Step 1
Explain what is meant by participatory budgeting in this context?
Answer
Participatory budgeting is a democratic process in which community members directly decide how to allocate part of a public budget. This approach empowers citizens by involving them in the decision-making processes regarding public spending, ensuring their voices and needs are represented in budget allocations.
Step 2
Highlight some examples of participatory budgeting that you have come across in local government.
Answer
Examples of participatory budgeting in local government include:
- Seattle, USA - Residents participate in budgeting and funding community projects through a structured voting process.
- Paris, France - Citizens can propose and vote on projects to improve their neighborhoods using a portion of the city's budget.
- Belo Horizonte, Brazil - This city has a long-established participatory budgeting process where community assemblies directly contribute to budget decisions.
Step 3
Give an example of a notable case of this.
Answer
A notable case of participatory budgeting is that of Porto Alegre, Brazil, which began in the late 1980s. This pioneering initiative allowed citizens to discuss and decide on public investments, leading to increased accountability and improved public services in the region. It has inspired numerous cities worldwide to adopt similar practices.
Step 4
Reflect on how this approach could impact local governance.
Answer
Participatory budgeting can significantly impact local governance by:
- Enhancing Transparency - By involving citizens in the budgeting process, local governments can build trust and openness.
- Empowering Communities - Citizens feel more invested and responsible for local issues, promoting civic engagement.
- Improving Resource Allocation - Budget decisions based on community input often lead to more effective spending that reflects actual needs.
- Encouraging Collaboration - It fosters partnerships between citizens and government officials, leading to innovative solutions to local challenges.